His exit from the IPL attributed to personal reasons this season, all-rounder Suresh Raina's stint with Chennai Super Kings seems in jeopardy even next year as the franchise might part ways with him before the 2021 edition.

The CSK camp based in Dubai reported 13 COVID-19 cases, including two main squad members Deepak Chahar and Ruturaj Gaikwad, a development which an IPL source said, played a role in the recently-retired India player's exit from the event starting September 19.

However, it has now emerged that the team management was not particularly happy with the 32-year-old's "conduct" during the quarantine time, something which infuriated CSK owner and former BCCI president N Srinivasan.

"In CSK, the norm is that the coach, captain and the manager get suites. However, Raina also gets a suite in any hotel that the franchise stays. It's just that his room didn't have a balcony," an IPL source told PTI.

"It was an issue but I don't think big enough to warrant a comeback (to India). There could be something more than just the scare of rising COVID-caseload in Chennai," the source added, alluding to a speculated breach of the bio-bubble by Raina.

He said given the situation, Raina could well be gone for good now not only this season but also the next IPL scheduled in April, 2021. Chennai's favourite 'Chinna Thala' may not wear the Canary yellow again.

Is there a possibility of Raina coming back this season, thereby changing the circumstances?

"He is unavailable this season and that is clear from the official statement issued by the CSK. Now there are certain things that have not gone down too well with the top people," the source said.

"It looks highly improbable that someone who has retired and likely won't play any cricket will come back for CSK. Maybe, he will be back in auction and someone else might pick him."

CSK is punting heavily on young Ruturaj, expecting that he will come good once he completes the quarantine and rejoins the training session after two negative tests.

"CSK has not yet asked for an official replacement for Raina...They are undecided," the IPL source added.

On the speculated bio-bubble breach, the source said an apology from Raina will have little impact given that the team is looking ahead.

"I don't know about the apology part but CSK will now be eyeing to prepare Ruturaj looking at the future and Dhoni and Fleming will rejig their strategy accordingly," the source added.

Raina is CSK's highest run-getter with 4527 runs from 164 IPL games. The Uttar Pradesh left-hander is also the second highest scorer in IPL history with 5368 runs, second only to Indian skipper Virat Kohli's 5412 runs. 
&nbsp;

His exit from the IPL attributed to personal reasons this season, all-rounder Suresh Raina's stint with Chennai Super Kings seems in jeopardy even next year as the franchise might part ways with him before the 2021 edition.

His exit from the IPL attributed to personal reasons this season, all-rounder Suresh Raina's stint with Chennai Super Kings seems in jeopardy even next year as the franchise might part ways with him before the 2021 edition. The CSK camp based in Dubai reported 13 COVID-19 cases, including two main squad members Deepak Chahar and Ruturaj Gaikwad, a development which an IPL source said, played a role in the recently-retired India player's exit from the event starting September 19. However, it has now emerged that the team management was not particularly happy with the 32-year-old's "conduct" during the quarantine time, something which infuriated CSK owner and former BCCI president N Srinivasan. "In CSK, the norm is that the coach, captain and the manager get suites. However, Raina also gets a suite in any hotel that the franchise stays. It's just that his room didn't have a balcony," an IPL source told PTI. "It was an issue but I don't think big enough to warrant a comeback (to India). There could be something more than just the scare of rising COVID-caseload in Chennai," the source added, alluding to a speculated breach of the bio-bubble by Raina. He said given the situation, Raina could well be gone for good now not only this season but also the next IPL scheduled in April, 2021. Chennai's favourite 'Chinna Thala' may not wear the Canary yellow again. Is there a possibility of Raina coming back this season, thereby changing the circumstances? "He is unavailable this season and that is clear from the official statement issued by the CSK. Now there are certain things that have not gone down too well with the top people," the source said. "It looks highly improbable that someone who has retired and likely won't play any cricket will come back for CSK. Maybe, he will be back in auction and someone else might pick him." CSK is punting heavily on young Ruturaj, expecting that he will come good once he completes the quarantine and rejoins the training session after two negative tests. "CSK has not yet asked for an official replacement for Raina...They are undecided," the IPL source added. On the speculated bio-bubble breach, the source said an apology from Raina will have little impact given that the team is looking ahead. "I don't know about the apology part but CSK will now be eyeing to prepare Ruturaj looking at the future and Dhoni and Fleming will rejig their strategy accordingly," the source added. Raina is CSK's highest run-getter with 4527 runs from 164 IPL games. The Uttar Pradesh left-hander is also the second highest scorer in IPL history with 5368 runs, second only to Indian skipper Virat Kohli's 5412 runs.

End of road for Suresh Raina in CSK?

Chennai Super Kings owner and former BCCI president N Srinivasan reacted to veteran batsman Suresh Raina pulling out of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL 2020</a> as he said that the southpaw will regret his decision of heading back to India and would want to come back in some point of time apart from the hefty INR 11 crore per season of his salary.

Entire CSK fan base was left shocked when the Super Kings on Saturday announced that Raina will miss IPL 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’. While speculation was rife that positive cases in the CSK contingent played a role in Raina pulling his name out of IPL 2020, the report in Outlook which had comments from Srinivasan as well, stated that Raina was unhappy with his hotel room and wanted a similar room which was allotted to MS Dhoni. Apparently, a room without balconies made Raina ‘claustrophobic’ in the strict bio-secure environment.

The season has not begun yet and Raina will certainly realise what he is missing and certainly all the money (a salary of 11 crores per season) he is going to lose,” Srinivasan told Outlook.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-bcci-confirms-13-positive-covid-19-cases-after-initial-rounds-of-testing-323898" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: BCCI confirms 13 positive COVID-19 cases after initial rounds of testing</a>

“My thinking is that if you are reluctant or not happy, go back. I don’t force anyone to do anything ... sometimes success gets into your head,” he further said.

Srinivasan added that cricketers are like temperamental actors of the olden days and in CSK, senior players have learned to co-exist.&nbsp;

“Cricketers are like prima donnas ... like the temperamental actors of the olden days. Chennai Super Kings have always been like a family and all senior players have learned to co-exist,” said Srinivasan.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-to-miss-ipl-2020-due-to-personal-reasons-323862" hreflang="en">Suresh Raina to miss IPL 2020 due to personal reasons</a>

However, the exact reason of Raina opting out of IPL 2020 is still unknown and it will be the first season where the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history will miss the lucrative tournament, which is scheduled to be held in the UAE from September 19 to November 10.&nbsp;

"I spoke to MS (Dhoni) and he has assured me that even if the numbers go up, there was nothing to worry. He spoke to the players through a zoom call and asked them to remain safe. You really don't know who is a passive carrier," Srinivasan said.

"I have got a solid captain. Dhoni is simply unfazed by anything. That is giving everyone in the team a lot of confidence," Srinivasan added.&nbsp;

While Raina is known for his down to earth and happy going demeanour, it is surprising to see reports stating that there was a rift between him and CSK management.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings owner and former BCCI president N Srinivasan reacted to veteran batsman Suresh Raina pulling out of IPL 2020 as he said that the southpaw will regret his decision of heading back to India and would want to come back in some point of time apart from the hefty INR 11 crore per season of his salary.

Chennai Super Kings owner and former BCCI president N Srinivasan reacted to veteran batsman Suresh Raina pulling out of IPL 2020 as he said that the southpaw will regret his decision of heading back to India and would want to come back in some point of time apart from the hefty INR 11 crore per season of his salary. Entire CSK fan base was left shocked when the Super Kings on Saturday announced that Raina will miss IPL 2020 due to ‘personal reasons’. While speculation was rife that positive cases in the CSK contingent played a role in Raina pulling his name out of IPL 2020, the report in Outlook which had comments from Srinivasan as well, stated that Raina was unhappy with his hotel room and wanted a similar room which was allotted to MS Dhoni. Apparently, a room without balconies made Raina ‘claustrophobic’ in the strict bio-secure environment. The season has not begun yet and Raina will certainly realise what he is missing and certainly all the money (a salary of 11 crores per season) he is going to lose,” Srinivasan told Outlook. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: BCCI confirms 13 positive COVID-19 cases after initial rounds of testing “My thinking is that if you are reluctant or not happy, go back. I don’t force anyone to do anything ... sometimes success gets into your head,” he further said. Srinivasan added that cricketers are like temperamental actors of the olden days and in CSK, senior players have learned to co-exist. “Cricketers are like prima donnas ... like the temperamental actors of the olden days. Chennai Super Kings have always been like a family and all senior players have learned to co-exist,” said Srinivasan. ALSO READ: Suresh Raina to miss IPL 2020 due to personal reasons However, the exact reason of Raina opting out of IPL 2020 is still unknown and it will be the first season where the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history will miss the lucrative tournament, which is scheduled to be held in the UAE from September 19 to November 10. "I spoke to MS (Dhoni) and he has assured me that even if the numbers go up, there was nothing to worry. He spoke to the players through a zoom call and asked them to remain safe. You really don't know who is a passive carrier," Srinivasan said. "I have got a solid captain. Dhoni is simply unfazed by anything. That is giving everyone in the team a lot of confidence," Srinivasan added. While Raina is known for his down to earth and happy going demeanour, it is surprising to see reports stating that there was a rift between him and CSK management.

IPL 2020: Suresh Raina's exit due to rift over hotel room? N Srinivasan says 'sometimes success gets into head'

Chennai Super Kings on Saturday announced that Suresh Raina will be missing the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> due to personal reasons. The development comes as a huge blow to Chennai Super Kings as Raina has been a force to reckon with in IPL.

The southpaw was looking in high spirits and sounded excited for IPL 2020 but unfortunately, fans won't see him don the yellow jersey in the 13th edition of IPL.

While the exact reason of Raina missing IPL 2020 is not yet known, CSK have offered complete support to Raina and his family in their statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-members-of-chennai-super-kings-contingent-test-positive-for-covid-19-323710" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Members of Chennai Super Kings contingent test positive for COVID-19</a>

"Suresh Raina has returned to India for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the remainder of the IPL season. Chennai Super Kings offers complete support to Suresh and his family during this time," said CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan via CSK twitter handle on Saturday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Suresh Raina has returned to India for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the remainder of the IPL season. Chennai Super Kings offers complete support to Suresh and his family during this time. 
 
KS Viswanathan 
CEO
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1299582504886775808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-kkr-and-mi-to-start-training-after-relaxation-of-abu-dhabi-quarantine-norms-323654" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: KKR and MI to start training after relaxation of Abu Dhabi quarantine norms</a>

Earlier on Friday, at least 10 members of CSK contingent in Dubai tested positive for COVID-19 and reportedly, it includes one of the names of Indian bowling department in it. While no official confirmation has been provided yet, the entire CSK squad will undergo another COVID-19 test. CSK have also extended their quarantine period by another week after they were scheduled to start practicing of Friday.&nbsp;

On August 15, Raina announced his retirement from international cricket after MS Dhoni called it quits. The duo took to social media platform Instagram to hang their boots.&nbsp;

In IPL,&nbsp;Raina run-getter has amassed 4527 runs from 164 IPL games for CSK. The No.3 batsman featured in 158 consecutive games for CSK&nbsp;before missing his first game in the 2018 season with a calf injury.

Chennai Super Kings on Saturday announced that Suresh Raina will be missing the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to personal reasons. The development comes as a huge blow to Chennai Super Kings as Raina has been a force to reckon with in IPL.

Chennai Super Kings on Saturday announced that Suresh Raina will be missing the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to personal reasons. The development comes as a huge blow to Chennai Super Kings as Raina has been a force to reckon with in IPL. The southpaw was looking in high spirits and sounded excited for IPL 2020 but unfortunately, fans won't see him don the yellow jersey in the 13th edition of IPL. While the exact reason of Raina missing IPL 2020 is not yet known, CSK have offered complete support to Raina and his family in their statement. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Members of Chennai Super Kings contingent test positive for COVID-19 "Suresh Raina has returned to India for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the remainder of the IPL season. Chennai Super Kings offers complete support to Suresh and his family during this time," said CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan via CSK twitter handle on Saturday. Suresh Raina has returned to India for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the remainder of the IPL season. Chennai Super Kings offers complete support to Suresh and his family during this time. KS Viswanathan CEO — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) August 29, 2020 × ALSO READ: IPL 2020: KKR and MI to start training after relaxation of Abu Dhabi quarantine norms Earlier on Friday, at least 10 members of CSK contingent in Dubai tested positive for COVID-19 and reportedly, it includes one of the names of Indian bowling department in it. While no official confirmation has been provided yet, the entire CSK squad will undergo another COVID-19 test. CSK have also extended their quarantine period by another week after they were scheduled to start practicing of Friday. On August 15, Raina announced his retirement from international cricket after MS Dhoni called it quits. The duo took to social media platform Instagram to hang their boots. In IPL, Raina run-getter has amassed 4527 runs from 164 IPL games for CSK. The No.3 batsman featured in 158 consecutive games for CSK before missing his first game in the 2018 season with a calf injury.

Suresh Raina to miss IPL 2020 due to personal reasons

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday confirmed that as many as 13 personnel involed in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> have been tested positive for COVID-19 including two players. Earlier, there were reports that around 10 personnel have tested positive only from the Chennai Super Kings camp but there have been no sorts of confirmation regarding that.

However, BCCI has now confirmed, without naming any player or franchise, that total of 13 personnel have returned positive after the RT-PCR COVID-19 tests.

BCCI confirmed that total of 1,988 tests were carried out between August 20 and 28 out of which 13 have tested positive while adding all the affected people as well as their close contacts are asymptomatic and have been isolated from their team members. They are being monitored by IPL Medical Team.

Earlier, in what came as a massive blow, Chennai Super Kings stalwart Suresh Raina pulled out of IPL 2020 due to personel reason. And it remains to be seen if CSK opt for a replacement for 'Chinna Thala'. The exact reason for Raina pulling out of IPL 2020 is not yet known.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suresh-raina-to-miss-ipl-2020-due-to-personal-reasons-323862" hreflang="en">Suresh Raina to miss IPL 2020 due to personal reasons</a>

<h2>Full statement from BCCI on COVID-19 testing:</h2>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has put in place stringent health and safety protocols for the Dream11 Indian Premier League 2020 Season, which is scheduled to start from September 19th in the UAE.

Accordingly, upon landing in the UAE, all the participants have followed a mandatory testing and quarantine programme. Total of 1,988 RT-PCR COVID tests were carried out between August 20th – 28th across all participant groups in the UAE. These groups include Players, Support Staff, Team Management, BCCI Staff, IPL Operational team, Hotel and ground transport Staff.

13 personnel have tested positive of which 2 are players. All the affected personnel as well as their close contacts are asymptomatic and have been isolated from other team members. They are being monitored by the IPL Medical Team.

As per the IPL 2020 Health and Safety Protocols testing on all participants will be conducted regularly throughout the IPL 2020 Season.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday confirmed that as many as 13 personnel involed in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 have been tested positive for COVID-19 including two players.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday confirmed that as many as 13 personnel involed in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 have been tested positive for COVID-19 including two players. Earlier, there were reports that around 10 personnel have tested positive only from the Chennai Super Kings camp but there have been no sorts of confirmation regarding that. However, BCCI has now confirmed, without naming any player or franchise, that total of 13 personnel have returned positive after the RT-PCR COVID-19 tests. BCCI confirmed that total of 1,988 tests were carried out between August 20 and 28 out of which 13 have tested positive while adding all the affected people as well as their close contacts are asymptomatic and have been isolated from their team members. They are being monitored by IPL Medical Team. Earlier, in what came as a massive blow, Chennai Super Kings stalwart Suresh Raina pulled out of IPL 2020 due to personel reason. And it remains to be seen if CSK opt for a replacement for 'Chinna Thala'. The exact reason for Raina pulling out of IPL 2020 is not yet known. ALSO READ: Suresh Raina to miss IPL 2020 due to personal reasons Full statement from BCCI on COVID-19 testing: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has put in place stringent health and safety protocols for the Dream11 Indian Premier League 2020 Season, which is scheduled to start from September 19th in the UAE. Accordingly, upon landing in the UAE, all the participants have followed a mandatory testing and quarantine programme. Total of 1,988 RT-PCR COVID tests were carried out between August 20th – 28th across all participant groups in the UAE. These groups include Players, Support Staff, Team Management, BCCI Staff, IPL Operational team, Hotel and ground transport Staff. 13 personnel have tested positive of which 2 are players. All the affected personnel as well as their close contacts are asymptomatic and have been isolated from other team members. They are being monitored by the IPL Medical Team. As per the IPL 2020 Health and Safety Protocols testing on all participants will be conducted regularly throughout the IPL 2020 Season.

IPL 2020: BCCI confirms 13 positive COVID-19 cases after initial rounds of testing

Members of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) contingent have tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the much-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>, scheduled to start from September 19. CSK were to start their training sessions from Friday but postponed it till September 1 after it was found that 12 members of CSK contingent tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus.&nbsp;

While reports say that as many as members have tested positive for COVID-19, there has been no official confirmation about it either from CSK or the BCCI. According to a report in TOI, members had tested positive after they landed in Dubai, their base for IPL 2020. The names of the player or staff who tested positive for the dreaded virus are not yet known.&nbsp;

WION has learned that no support staff member has tested positive and only a member of social media team and two net bowlers have returned positive. An official statement is likely to be released by CSK shortly.

As a result of positive cases, CSK will now have to extend their quarantine period for another week. It was earlier reported that they have extended their quarantine phase till September 1. Chennai Super Kings have reached Dubai on August 21 and completed their mandatory six-day quarantine period put in place by IPL.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-chennai-super-kings-extend-quarantine-period-to-commence-training-from-september-1-323701" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Chennai Super Kings extend quarantine period, to commence training from September 1</a>

The report says that that the entire CSK squad, including support staff and officials, underwent their fourth COVID-19 test on Friday. The results of the latest tests will come out on Saturday.&nbsp;

A source though said that CSK had taken all the necessary precautions upon reaching Dubai. "Even when football started in Europe, a few players had tested positive. So with eight IPL teams and over 1000 members, this was a possibility. This could have happened to any team. It is just unlucky that it has happened to CSK despite taking all kinds of precautions," the source told TOI on Friday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-kkr-and-mi-to-start-training-after-relaxation-of-abu-dhabi-quarantine-norms-323654" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: KKR and MI to start training after relaxation of Abu Dhabi quarantine norms</a>

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is scheduled to kick-start from September 19. 
&nbsp;

Members of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) contingent have tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, scheduled to start from September 19.

Members of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) contingent have tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, scheduled to start from September 19. CSK were to start their training sessions from Friday but postponed it till September 1 after it was found that 12 members of CSK contingent tested positive for the dreaded coronavirus. While reports say that as many as members have tested positive for COVID-19, there has been no official confirmation about it either from CSK or the BCCI. According to a report in TOI, members had tested positive after they landed in Dubai, their base for IPL 2020. The names of the player or staff who tested positive for the dreaded virus are not yet known. WION has learned that no support staff member has tested positive and only a member of social media team and two net bowlers have returned positive. An official statement is likely to be released by CSK shortly. As a result of positive cases, CSK will now have to extend their quarantine period for another week. It was earlier reported that they have extended their quarantine phase till September 1. Chennai Super Kings have reached Dubai on August 21 and completed their mandatory six-day quarantine period put in place by IPL. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Chennai Super Kings extend quarantine period, to commence training from September 1 The report says that that the entire CSK squad, including support staff and officials, underwent their fourth COVID-19 test on Friday. The results of the latest tests will come out on Saturday. A source though said that CSK had taken all the necessary precautions upon reaching Dubai. "Even when football started in Europe, a few players had tested positive. So with eight IPL teams and over 1000 members, this was a possibility. This could have happened to any team. It is just unlucky that it has happened to CSK despite taking all kinds of precautions," the source told TOI on Friday. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: KKR and MI to start training after relaxation of Abu Dhabi quarantine norms The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is scheduled to kick-start from September 19.

IPL 2020: Members of Chennai Super Kings contingent test positive for COVID-19

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL)</a> outfit Chennai Super Kings have extended their quarantine period and will now commence their training camp from September 1. CSK reached Dubai on August 21 and were slated to start their training camp on Friday but have now extended their quarantine phase put in place by the IPL.&nbsp;

However, there is no confirmation on why CSK have opted to extend their quarantine period and stay indoors at the team hotel in Dubai.

As per IPL’s COVID-19 SOP, all the franchise will have to undergo three tests on Day 1, 3 and 5 upon landing in Dubai and can start training only after all test come out negative.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-kkr-and-mi-to-start-training-after-relaxation-of-abu-dhabi-quarantine-norms-323654" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: KKR and MI to start training after relaxation of Abu Dhabi quarantine norms</a>

As per a report in ESPNcricinfo, other teams are also monitoring developments in the CSK camp and one franchise official have urged the IPL to issue an advisory to all the teams to update about COVID-19 test results on all teams.

The latest development means that Chennai Super Kings will be the last team to commence training for IPL 2020 after Rajasthan Royals, Kings XI Punjab already completed their training sessions. Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians are set to hold their first training session on Friday whereas Delhi Capitals will start training on Saturday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-left-arm-seamer-daniel-sams-replaces-jason-roy-in-delhi-capitals-323511" hreflang="en">Australian left-arm seamer Daniel Sams replaces Jason Roy in Delhi Capitals</a>

Chennai Super Kings, before jetting off to the UAE, held a short conditioning camp for the domestic players in Chennai from August 15-20 and was attended by the likes of MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina, Piyush Chawla, Deepak Chahar, Karn Sharma among others.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is set to start from September 19 with the final scheduled to be played on Novmber 10 in the UAE.

Indian Premier League (IPL) outfit Chennai Super Kings have extended their quarantine period and will now commence their training camp from September 1. CSK reached Dubai on August 21 and were slated to start their training camp on Friday but have now extended their quarantine phase put in place by the IPL.

Indian Premier League (IPL) outfit Chennai Super Kings have extended their quarantine period and will now commence their training camp from September 1. CSK reached Dubai on August 21 and were slated to start their training camp on Friday but have now extended their quarantine phase put in place by the IPL. However, there is no confirmation on why CSK have opted to extend their quarantine period and stay indoors at the team hotel in Dubai. As per IPL’s COVID-19 SOP, all the franchise will have to undergo three tests on Day 1, 3 and 5 upon landing in Dubai and can start training only after all test come out negative. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: KKR and MI to start training after relaxation of Abu Dhabi quarantine norms As per a report in ESPNcricinfo, other teams are also monitoring developments in the CSK camp and one franchise official have urged the IPL to issue an advisory to all the teams to update about COVID-19 test results on all teams. The latest development means that Chennai Super Kings will be the last team to commence training for IPL 2020 after Rajasthan Royals, Kings XI Punjab already completed their training sessions. Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians are set to hold their first training session on Friday whereas Delhi Capitals will start training on Saturday. ALSO READ: Australian left-arm seamer Daniel Sams replaces Jason Roy in Delhi Capitals Chennai Super Kings, before jetting off to the UAE, held a short conditioning camp for the domestic players in Chennai from August 15-20 and was attended by the likes of MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina, Piyush Chawla, Deepak Chahar, Karn Sharma among others. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is set to start from September 19 with the final scheduled to be played on Novmber 10 in the UAE.

IPL 2020: Chennai Super Kings extend quarantine period, to commence training from September 1

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League</a>&nbsp;(IPL) franchises Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders are set to commence their training camp in Abu Dhabi, UAE on Friday after relaxation of quarantine rules for both the franchises. Due to rising cases of COVID-19 in Abu Dhabi, the quarantine rules are stricter in comparison to Dubai norms.

While Dubai has only seven-day quarantine period, Abu Dhabi has a 14-day phase of self-isolation, which worried both KKR and MI. However, the quarantine period was given relaxation by KKR and MI after consultation between the BCCI and Emirates Cricket Board.&nbsp;

Six franchises are staying in Dubai hotels and MI and KKR have found base in Abu Dhabi. Many teams have started their practice sessions in Dubai with MI and KKR set to commence their practice from Friday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/morgan-voices-england-t20-world-cup-concerns-ahead-of-pakistan-series-323618" hreflang="en">Morgan voices England T20 World Cup concerns ahead of Pakistan series</a>

On Wednesday, one of the MI staff had appealed to the BCCI to allow them to train after completion of a seven-day quarantine phase.

The two teams – KKR and MI – can now conduct their first practice session in Abu Dhabi on Friday evening. Mumbai Indians are staying in the St Regis Saadiyatisland Resort.

The likes of Kings XI Punjab and Rajasthan Royals were the first franchises to start their training sessions are teams gear up for the much-awaited IPL 2020 in UAE.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-looking-forward-to-learn-from-russell-says-kkrs-tom-banton-323514" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Looking forward to learn from Russell, says KKR's Tom Banton</a>

Interestingly, the schedule for IPL 2020 is yet to be announced and there is much anticipation surrounding the fixture list. However, going by Rohit Sharma’s congratulatory message on MS Dhoni’s retirement post, Chennai Super Kings might face Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2020 season opener on September 19. The final of IPL 2020 is scheduled to be held on November 10.

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders are set to commence their training camp in Abu Dhabi, UAE on Friday after relaxation of quarantine rules for both the franchises.

Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders are set to commence their training camp in Abu Dhabi, UAE on Friday after relaxation of quarantine rules for both the franchises. Due to rising cases of COVID-19 in Abu Dhabi, the quarantine rules are stricter in comparison to Dubai norms. While Dubai has only seven-day quarantine period, Abu Dhabi has a 14-day phase of self-isolation, which worried both KKR and MI. However, the quarantine period was given relaxation by KKR and MI after consultation between the BCCI and Emirates Cricket Board. Six franchises are staying in Dubai hotels and MI and KKR have found base in Abu Dhabi. Many teams have started their practice sessions in Dubai with MI and KKR set to commence their practice from Friday. ALSO READ: Morgan voices England T20 World Cup concerns ahead of Pakistan series On Wednesday, one of the MI staff had appealed to the BCCI to allow them to train after completion of a seven-day quarantine phase. The two teams – KKR and MI – can now conduct their first practice session in Abu Dhabi on Friday evening. Mumbai Indians are staying in the St Regis Saadiyatisland Resort. The likes of Kings XI Punjab and Rajasthan Royals were the first franchises to start their training sessions are teams gear up for the much-awaited IPL 2020 in UAE. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Looking forward to learn from Russell, says KKR's Tom Banton Interestingly, the schedule for IPL 2020 is yet to be announced and there is much anticipation surrounding the fixture list. However, going by Rohit Sharma’s congratulatory message on MS Dhoni’s retirement post, Chennai Super Kings might face Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2020 season opener on September 19. The final of IPL 2020 is scheduled to be held on November 10.

IPL 2020: KKR and MI to start training after relaxation of Abu Dhabi quarantine norms

Talented English batsman Tom Banton, who impressed with his performances for Somerset in last year's T20 Blast, is looking forward to learn from star West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell during his Kolkata Knight Riders stint in the upcoming IPL.

Banton, who scored 549 runs from 13 matches at a strike rate of 161.47 in 2019 Vitality Blast, was bought by the Kolkata franchise for Rs 1 crore for the IPL which begins in the UAE on September 19.

"I'm particularly excited to play alongside Andre Russell and Pat Cummins. I watched Andre last year, and he played really well. Learning from someone like him will be really cool," Banton, who made his England debut in New Zealand and played in three T20Is, was quoted as saying in kkr.In.

Russell was the Most Valuable Player of IPL 2019, scoring 510 runs from 13 innings, averaging 56.66. He also picked up 11 wickets. 
The 21-year-old Banton said he's also excited to be with the likes of Shivam Mavi, Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Shubman Gill, whom he has played against in his U-19 days.

"There are a few guys of my age ? (Shivam) Mavi, (Kamlesh) Nagarkoti and Shubman (Gill) - whom I have played against when I was younger. It would be great to see them again."

Banton played in the same U-19 World Cup in which Shubman was adjudged Man of the Tournament.

"I remember the Indians were a lot better than all of us in the (2018 Under-19) World Cup. I look up to those guys even now, and I am still good friends with some of them. Playing alongside Shubman at KKR will be pretty nice and I am really looking forward to it," he said.

"Honestly, just being part of the IPL is something I have been dreaming of since a very young age. I have been watching IPL every year. I have literally been glued to the IPL from the very first games in the years when it started."

The hockey player-turned cricketer loves to play innovative shots like reverse-slaps and scoops. He showed one such shot against Sam Curran in the Vitality Blast when he switched his grip and reverse-scooped for a six.

"I guess it probably comes from playing hockey. I was a drag flicker and used to play reverse there quite often. My dad used to play hockey and I kind of followed his footsteps," Banton, who played hockey from the age of three, said.

"I was 16-year-old, when things were getting more serious and I had to pick one sport and that's when I chose cricket."

The tall youngster has drawn regular comparisons with former England captain Kevin Pietersen.

"He (Pietersen) is one of the greatest players to have played from England. I have watched him while growing up and he was definitely an idol of mine. But honestly, I don't like to think so much, otherwise you get too far ahead of yourself," he said.

Talented English batsman Tom Banton, who impressed with his performances for Somerset in last year's T20 Blast, is looking forward to learn from star West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell during his Kolkata Knight Riders stint in the upcoming IPL.

Talented English batsman Tom Banton, who impressed with his performances for Somerset in last year's T20 Blast, is looking forward to learn from star West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell during his Kolkata Knight Riders stint in the upcoming IPL. Banton, who scored 549 runs from 13 matches at a strike rate of 161.47 in 2019 Vitality Blast, was bought by the Kolkata franchise for Rs 1 crore for the IPL which begins in the UAE on September 19. "I'm particularly excited to play alongside Andre Russell and Pat Cummins. I watched Andre last year, and he played really well. Learning from someone like him will be really cool," Banton, who made his England debut in New Zealand and played in three T20Is, was quoted as saying in kkr.In. Russell was the Most Valuable Player of IPL 2019, scoring 510 runs from 13 innings, averaging 56.66. He also picked up 11 wickets. The 21-year-old Banton said he's also excited to be with the likes of Shivam Mavi, Kamlesh Nagarkoti and Shubman Gill, whom he has played against in his U-19 days. "There are a few guys of my age ? (Shivam) Mavi, (Kamlesh) Nagarkoti and Shubman (Gill) - whom I have played against when I was younger. It would be great to see them again." Banton played in the same U-19 World Cup in which Shubman was adjudged Man of the Tournament. "I remember the Indians were a lot better than all of us in the (2018 Under-19) World Cup. I look up to those guys even now, and I am still good friends with some of them. Playing alongside Shubman at KKR will be pretty nice and I am really looking forward to it," he said. "Honestly, just being part of the IPL is something I have been dreaming of since a very young age. I have been watching IPL every year. I have literally been glued to the IPL from the very first games in the years when it started." The hockey player-turned cricketer loves to play innovative shots like reverse-slaps and scoops. He showed one such shot against Sam Curran in the Vitality Blast when he switched his grip and reverse-scooped for a six. "I guess it probably comes from playing hockey. I was a drag flicker and used to play reverse there quite often. My dad used to play hockey and I kind of followed his footsteps," Banton, who played hockey from the age of three, said. "I was 16-year-old, when things were getting more serious and I had to pick one sport and that's when I chose cricket." The tall youngster has drawn regular comparisons with former England captain Kevin Pietersen. "He (Pietersen) is one of the greatest players to have played from England. I have watched him while growing up and he was definitely an idol of mine. But honestly, I don't like to think so much, otherwise you get too far ahead of yourself," he said.

IPL 2020: Looking forward to learn from Russell, says KKR's Tom Banton

Uncapped Australian left-arm seamer Daniel Sams, the top wicket-taker in last year's Big Bash League (BBL), will replace England opener Jason Roy in the Delhi Capitals squad for the upcoming IPL, starting on September 19 in the UAE.

Roy has pulled out of the upcoming three match T20I series against Pakistan due to a side strain, which effectively ruled him out of the IPL.

Sams' inclusion also gives dimension to the DC attack which only had right-arm pacers in their main squad.

On joining Delhi Capitals, Sams said, "The IPL is a huge platform for any cricketer, and back home, we all follow the tournament extremely closely every year.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🚨 NEW SIGNING 🚨 
 
𝘋𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯, 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘢𝘭𝘭-𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘲𝘶𝘢𝘥 💙 
 
We're thrilled to welcome 🇦🇺 cricketer Daniel Sams to our DC family ahead of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dream11IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dream11IPL</a> 😍 
 
Read: <a href="https://t.co/QXgDtUXXiv">https://t.co/QXgDtUXXiv</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeSams?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeSams</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y9HnEMU9iV">pic.twitter.com/Y9HnEMU9iV</a>
— Delhi Capitals (Tweeting from 🇦🇪) (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1298992324941213696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

"I feel fortunate to be a part of it this year, and I'm thankful to the Delhi Capitals management for giving me this opportunity. I can't wait to join the rest of the players in the UAE."

He will be joining fellow Australians Marcus Stoinis and Alex Carey at the Delhi Capitals.

Sams came into the limelight during last year's Big Bash League where he picked up 30 wickets in 17 games for the Sydney Thunders.&nbsp;

Uncapped Australian left-arm seamer Daniel Sams, the top wicket-taker in last year's Big Bash League (BBL), will replace England opener Jason Roy in the Delhi Capitals squad for the upcoming IPL, starting on September 19 in the UAE.

Uncapped Australian left-arm seamer Daniel Sams, the top wicket-taker in last year's Big Bash League (BBL), will replace England opener Jason Roy in the Delhi Capitals squad for the upcoming IPL, starting on September 19 in the UAE. Roy has pulled out of the upcoming three match T20I series against Pakistan due to a side strain, which effectively ruled him out of the IPL. Sams' inclusion also gives dimension to the DC attack which only had right-arm pacers in their main squad. On joining Delhi Capitals, Sams said, "The IPL is a huge platform for any cricketer, and back home, we all follow the tournament extremely closely every year. 🚨 NEW SIGNING 🚨 𝘋𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯, 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘢𝘭𝘭-𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘲𝘶𝘢𝘥 💙 We're thrilled to welcome 🇦🇺 cricketer Daniel Sams to our DC family ahead of #Dream11IPL 😍 Read: https://t.co/QXgDtUXXiv#WelcomeSams #YehHaiNayiDilli pic.twitter.com/Y9HnEMU9iV — Delhi Capitals (Tweeting from 🇦🇪) (@DelhiCapitals) August 27, 2020 × "I feel fortunate to be a part of it this year, and I'm thankful to the Delhi Capitals management for giving me this opportunity. I can't wait to join the rest of the players in the UAE." He will be joining fellow Australians Marcus Stoinis and Alex Carey at the Delhi Capitals. Sams came into the limelight during last year's Big Bash League where he picked up 30 wickets in 17 games for the Sydney Thunders.

Australian left-arm seamer Daniel Sams replaces Jason Roy in Delhi Capitals

Royal Challengers Bangalore’s team director Mike Hesson is of the view that South African veterans AB de Villiers and Dale Steyn still have plenty to offer at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> despite playing few matches in top-level cricket in recent times.

De Villiers had quit international cricket in 2018 but continues to participate in T20 tournaments and was last seen in 3TC Solidarity Cup organized by Cricket South Africa in July. Hesson recalled his performance in the 3TC Cup while lauding his form and class.&nbsp;

“Only a matter of weeks ago he took part in a match in South Africa and once again he was a standout player, having just come out of his living room. So that certainly showed the quality of player he is,” Hesson told a virtual media conference from Dubai on Wednesday.

“He’s had very, very good franchise tournaments around the world the last 12 months and he’s in good touch.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-royal-challengers-bangalore-to-have-personalised-training-approach-323206" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Royal Challengers Bangalore to have personalised training approach</a>

“Physically, he’s feeling good and refreshed. And once again, he’s one of the few in the group that are absolutely chomping at the bit to get into training.”

Whereas express speedster Steyn, who retired from Test cricket in 2019 to extend his limited-overs career, has played just three T20I matches in 2020 in addition to the matches played in Pakistan Super League (PSL) before the COVID-19 pandemic struck.

“He’s developing his game,” former New Zealand head coach Hesson said of the 37-year-old quick.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-salutes-kings-xi-punjab-and-ipl-dream-with-sheldon-cottrell-319471" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell</a>

“We saw some different deliveries that he’s been able to develop over the last six months. So he’s certainly not ready to retire yet, certainly very keen to make a contribution this IPL.”

IPL 2020 is scheduled to kickstart from September 19 with the final slated to be held on November 10 in the UAE. 
&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore’s team director Mike Hesson is of the view that South African veterans AB de Villiers and Dale Steyn still have plenty to offer at Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 despite playing few matches in top-level cricket in recent times.

Royal Challengers Bangalore’s team director Mike Hesson is of the view that South African veterans AB de Villiers and Dale Steyn still have plenty to offer at Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 despite playing few matches in top-level cricket in recent times. De Villiers had quit international cricket in 2018 but continues to participate in T20 tournaments and was last seen in 3TC Solidarity Cup organized by Cricket South Africa in July. Hesson recalled his performance in the 3TC Cup while lauding his form and class. “Only a matter of weeks ago he took part in a match in South Africa and once again he was a standout player, having just come out of his living room. So that certainly showed the quality of player he is,” Hesson told a virtual media conference from Dubai on Wednesday. “He’s had very, very good franchise tournaments around the world the last 12 months and he’s in good touch. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Royal Challengers Bangalore to have personalised training approach “Physically, he’s feeling good and refreshed. And once again, he’s one of the few in the group that are absolutely chomping at the bit to get into training.” Whereas express speedster Steyn, who retired from Test cricket in 2019 to extend his limited-overs career, has played just three T20I matches in 2020 in addition to the matches played in Pakistan Super League (PSL) before the COVID-19 pandemic struck. “He’s developing his game,” former New Zealand head coach Hesson said of the 37-year-old quick. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell “We saw some different deliveries that he’s been able to develop over the last six months. So he’s certainly not ready to retire yet, certainly very keen to make a contribution this IPL.” IPL 2020 is scheduled to kickstart from September 19 with the final slated to be held on November 10 in the UAE.

De Villiers, Steyn still have plenty to offer: RCB's Mike Hesson

Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to commence training for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the bio-secure environment after completing their designated six-day quarantine period. The Virat Kohli-led outfit will introduce personalized training approach to prepare for IPL 2020, which is set to be held in the UAE from September 19 to November 10.

As the RCB squad gears up to start training for IPL 2020, franchise’s Director of Cricket Operations, Mike Hesson reckons that single training session for all the players won’t be a viable options given the current circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic, strict protocols and what each player has experienced over the last few months.

RCB, who are based in Dubai for IPL 2020, will begin their three-week training camp at the ICC Cricket Academy and will take up training and practice to gather the lost rhythm and demands of playing in the extreme heat in the UAE.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-test-rankings-crawley-anderson-soar-up-after-memorable-performances-323188" hreflang="en">ICC Test Rankings: Crawley, Anderson soar up after memorable performances</a>

Talking about the challenges for the season, Mike Hesson – Director of Cricket Operations, RCB said, “Players have spent the last few months in a variety of environments and are therefore in different stages of fitness and training, and hence a singular training approach is not the best route to start getting ready for the season. Our Support Staff team will continue working in a way that is flexible and offers personalised support. We have a highly skilled Support Staff team to nurture the players mentally, physically and emotionally to assist each players preparation so they are ready to play their best cricket.”

<img alt="Mike Hesson" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c736c150-3a73-4779-9c6d-9acadf687d07" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mike%20Hesson%20%E2%80%93%20Director%20of%20Cricket%20Operations%2C%20RCB%20.JPG" />

Whereas RCB Head Coach Simon Katich said that they have planned several split-group sessions in a bid to give batsmen time to get back into flow after a long layoff while adding once everyone gets their rhythm back, collective sessions and practice matches can be conducted.

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-on-ipl-2020-csk-and-ms-dhoni-and-india-series-316501" hreflang="en">WION Exclusive: Australia's Josh Hazlewood on IPL 2020, CSK and MS Dhoni and India series</a>

Simon Katich, Head Coach, Royal Challengers Bangalore, said, “Given the unique circumstances, Covid- 19 has presented to everyone worldwide we are just extremely grateful to be in a position that we can get back to putting on a show for IPL in the UAE. Our preparations have revolved around giving the players at least 3 weeks to get back into the routine of training their skills and getting their bodies ready for the competition so they can build up gradually and try to minimise any injuries. We have several split- group sessions planned initially to help give the batsmen plenty of time getting volume in after such a long layoff. It also ties into helping mitigate any risks with Covid by not having the full squad training all at once either. Once everyone has got their touch and rhythm back with bat and ball, we will move into more competitive training before the scheduled practice matches and the start of the tournament.”&nbsp;

IPL 2020 starts from September 19 in the UAE with the final scheduled to be played in November 10.

Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to commence training for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the bio-secure environment after completing their designated six-day quarantine period.

Royal Challengers Bangalore are set to commence training for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the bio-secure environment after completing their designated six-day quarantine period. The Virat Kohli-led outfit will introduce personalized training approach to prepare for IPL 2020, which is set to be held in the UAE from September 19 to November 10. As the RCB squad gears up to start training for IPL 2020, franchise’s Director of Cricket Operations, Mike Hesson reckons that single training session for all the players won’t be a viable options given the current circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic, strict protocols and what each player has experienced over the last few months. RCB, who are based in Dubai for IPL 2020, will begin their three-week training camp at the ICC Cricket Academy and will take up training and practice to gather the lost rhythm and demands of playing in the extreme heat in the UAE. ALSO READ: ICC Test Rankings: Crawley, Anderson soar up after memorable performances Talking about the challenges for the season, Mike Hesson – Director of Cricket Operations, RCB said, “Players have spent the last few months in a variety of environments and are therefore in different stages of fitness and training, and hence a singular training approach is not the best route to start getting ready for the season. Our Support Staff team will continue working in a way that is flexible and offers personalised support. We have a highly skilled Support Staff team to nurture the players mentally, physically and emotionally to assist each players preparation so they are ready to play their best cricket.” Whereas RCB Head Coach Simon Katich said that they have planned several split-group sessions in a bid to give batsmen time to get back into flow after a long layoff while adding once everyone gets their rhythm back, collective sessions and practice matches can be conducted. ALSO WATCH: WION Exclusive: Australia's Josh Hazlewood on IPL 2020, CSK and MS Dhoni and India series Simon Katich, Head Coach, Royal Challengers Bangalore, said, “Given the unique circumstances, Covid- 19 has presented to everyone worldwide we are just extremely grateful to be in a position that we can get back to putting on a show for IPL in the UAE. Our preparations have revolved around giving the players at least 3 weeks to get back into the routine of training their skills and getting their bodies ready for the competition so they can build up gradually and try to minimise any injuries. We have several split- group sessions planned initially to help give the batsmen plenty of time getting volume in after such a long layoff. It also ties into helping mitigate any risks with Covid by not having the full squad training all at once either. Once everyone has got their touch and rhythm back with bat and ball, we will move into more competitive training before the scheduled practice matches and the start of the tournament.” IPL 2020 starts from September 19 in the UAE with the final scheduled to be played in November 10.

IPL 2020: Royal Challengers Bangalore to have personalised training approach

While all the franchises of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl?page=1">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> has reached UAE, there is no announcement of the tournament schedule, which is set to start from September 19. While IPL Governing Council Chairman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-will-ipl-2020-schedule-release-brijesh-patel-spills-the-beans-322827">Brijesh Patel had earlier said that the schedule for IPL 2020 will be released by the end of the week</a>, it looks like fans may have to wait a bit longer to get a hang of the fixture list.

According to a report in The Hindu, due to spike in COVID-19 cases in the UAE, there is confusion over the availability of Abu Dhabi and hence, there is a delay in IPL 2020 schedule. Abu Dhabi’s regional authorities have made rapid test mandatory at entry point which will see the broadcast crew and other officials shell out an additional AED 50.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-lookback-list-of-winners-from-2008-to-2019-283765" hreflang="en">IPL Lookback: List of winners from 2008 to 2019!</a>

A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) team is in the UAE to make some final checks before locking onto the schedule and the Indian board is looking to find an immediate solution so that everyone is on the same page before the schedule is released. Reportedly, there are even talks of excluding Abu Dhabi as a venue and the latest development suggests the board may restrict the number of matches there.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-chris-gayle-tests-negative-for-covid-19-after-attending-usain-bolts-birthday-bash-322951" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash</a>

“It could be a case of two teams playing home and away games back to back, similar to 2011 ,” said an IPL insider. “As of now, Abu Dhabi could host a few matches only in the first half.”

Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders are based in Abu Dhabi.

Earlier this week, BCCI’s Jay Shah wrote to state units that they won’t be able to attend “at least the beginning” of IPL 2020 due to strict bio-bubble protocols in place. However, the board is confident that during the business end of the tournament, members are likely to travel to the UAE if the travel restrictions are lifted.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/due-to-bio-bubble-restrictions-unable-to-invite-you-for-start-of-ipl-jay-shah-to-state-units-323025" hreflang="en">Due to bio-bubble restrictions, unable to invite you for start of IPL: Jay Shah to state units</a>

"While I am confident that we would be able to deliver a memorable tournament, I will be approaching the start of the tournament with a heavy heart as your absence would render the opening incomplete," BCCI secretary Shah wrote in an email to state units, which is in possession of PTI. 
&nbsp;

While all the franchises of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has reached UAE, there is no announcement of the tournament schedule, which is set to start from September 19.

While all the franchises of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 has reached UAE, there is no announcement of the tournament schedule, which is set to start from September 19. While IPL Governing Council Chairman Brijesh Patel had earlier said that the schedule for IPL 2020 will be released by the end of the week, it looks like fans may have to wait a bit longer to get a hang of the fixture list. According to a report in The Hindu, due to spike in COVID-19 cases in the UAE, there is confusion over the availability of Abu Dhabi and hence, there is a delay in IPL 2020 schedule. Abu Dhabi’s regional authorities have made rapid test mandatory at entry point which will see the broadcast crew and other officials shell out an additional AED 50. IN PICS | IPL Lookback: List of winners from 2008 to 2019! A Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) team is in the UAE to make some final checks before locking onto the schedule and the Indian board is looking to find an immediate solution so that everyone is on the same page before the schedule is released. Reportedly, there are even talks of excluding Abu Dhabi as a venue and the latest development suggests the board may restrict the number of matches there. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash “It could be a case of two teams playing home and away games back to back, similar to 2011 ,” said an IPL insider. “As of now, Abu Dhabi could host a few matches only in the first half.” Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders are based in Abu Dhabi. Earlier this week, BCCI’s Jay Shah wrote to state units that they won’t be able to attend “at least the beginning” of IPL 2020 due to strict bio-bubble protocols in place. However, the board is confident that during the business end of the tournament, members are likely to travel to the UAE if the travel restrictions are lifted. ALSO READ: Due to bio-bubble restrictions, unable to invite you for start of IPL: Jay Shah to state units "While I am confident that we would be able to deliver a memorable tournament, I will be approaching the start of the tournament with a heavy heart as your absence would render the opening incomplete," BCCI secretary Shah wrote in an email to state units, which is in possession of PTI.

Abu Dhabi COVID-19 cases reason behind IPL 2020 schedule delay: Report

Officials of BCCI's state units won't be able to attend "at least the beginning" of the IPL because of the strict bio-bubble in place for the tournament beginning September 19 in the UAE, board secretary Jay Shah informed the member associations on Tuesday.

Shah is confident that by the business end of the tournament, some of the travel restrictions will be relaxed, making it easier for members to travel to the UAE. The IPL final will be played on November 10.

BCCI inviting officials from its state units for the IPL ceremony and play-offs is conventional practice it follows, whether the tournament is held in India or abroad.

"While I am confident that we would be able to deliver a memorable tournament, I will be approaching the start of the tournament with a heavy heart as your absence would render the opening incomplete," BCCI secretary Shah wrote in an email to state units, which is in possession of PTI.

"As you are aware, the BCCI invites its former Office Bearers and the Presidents and Secretaries of all its state units to the IPL opening game and league matches as well as for the finals," Shah wrote.

The tournament is taking place in the UAE due to the COVID-19 situation in India and anyone part of the event needs to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the BCCI. At the moment, all teams are undergoing a mandatory six-day quarantine following their arrival last week.

"...Owing to some stringent restrictions on the movement of people and on account of the protocols put in place by us which includes the creation of several bio-secure bubbles to minimize the damage caused by COVID-19, we would not be able to have our annual gathering, at least at the beginning of the tournament," Shah wrote.

"The restriction on physical presence is the best way to avoid contracting and spreading the deadly virus and after a long-fought battle, this is yet another sacrifice that we are forced to make," the board secretary further wrote.

Shah made it clear that if situation improves in November, the members could be invited for the play-offs.

"I am hopeful that till the time we reach the playoff week, we would have more relaxations on travel and interactions, which would allow us to have you all travel to the UAE," Shah assured.

He agreed that IPL is also a forum for discussing all board related matters.

"Over the years, the IPL games have proved to be a fantastic platform for all of us to get together to witness some exhilarating cricket and also to exchange thoughts and ideas about the upcoming season and discuss matters related to the Board.

"However, as we take our first steps towards the resumption of cricket, let me assure you that we are pulling out all stops and making every effort to secure your presence for the crucial playoff stage of the IPL," Shah said.

Shah also thanked the members for pulling through in these tough times.

"Lastly, I wish to apprise you about the fact that we are aware of the difficulties that you are facing in these times and I assure you that all necessary steps would be taken by us in consultation with you, to alleviate those difficulties at the appropriate stage.

"The strength of the BCCI lies in its members and the matters of policy would only be firmed up with your inputs and upon the approval of the General Body," Shah concluded.&nbsp;

Officials of BCCI's state units won't be able to attend "at least the beginning" of the IPL because of the strict bio-bubble in place for the tournament beginning September 19 in the UAE, board secretary Jay Shah informed the member associations on Tuesday.

Officials of BCCI's state units won't be able to attend "at least the beginning" of the IPL because of the strict bio-bubble in place for the tournament beginning September 19 in the UAE, board secretary Jay Shah informed the member associations on Tuesday. Shah is confident that by the business end of the tournament, some of the travel restrictions will be relaxed, making it easier for members to travel to the UAE. The IPL final will be played on November 10. BCCI inviting officials from its state units for the IPL ceremony and play-offs is conventional practice it follows, whether the tournament is held in India or abroad. "While I am confident that we would be able to deliver a memorable tournament, I will be approaching the start of the tournament with a heavy heart as your absence would render the opening incomplete," BCCI secretary Shah wrote in an email to state units, which is in possession of PTI. "As you are aware, the BCCI invites its former Office Bearers and the Presidents and Secretaries of all its state units to the IPL opening game and league matches as well as for the finals," Shah wrote. The tournament is taking place in the UAE due to the COVID-19 situation in India and anyone part of the event needs to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the BCCI. At the moment, all teams are undergoing a mandatory six-day quarantine following their arrival last week. "...Owing to some stringent restrictions on the movement of people and on account of the protocols put in place by us which includes the creation of several bio-secure bubbles to minimize the damage caused by COVID-19, we would not be able to have our annual gathering, at least at the beginning of the tournament," Shah wrote. "The restriction on physical presence is the best way to avoid contracting and spreading the deadly virus and after a long-fought battle, this is yet another sacrifice that we are forced to make," the board secretary further wrote. Shah made it clear that if situation improves in November, the members could be invited for the play-offs. "I am hopeful that till the time we reach the playoff week, we would have more relaxations on travel and interactions, which would allow us to have you all travel to the UAE," Shah assured. He agreed that IPL is also a forum for discussing all board related matters. "Over the years, the IPL games have proved to be a fantastic platform for all of us to get together to witness some exhilarating cricket and also to exchange thoughts and ideas about the upcoming season and discuss matters related to the Board. "However, as we take our first steps towards the resumption of cricket, let me assure you that we are pulling out all stops and making every effort to secure your presence for the crucial playoff stage of the IPL," Shah said. Shah also thanked the members for pulling through in these tough times. "Lastly, I wish to apprise you about the fact that we are aware of the difficulties that you are facing in these times and I assure you that all necessary steps would be taken by us in consultation with you, to alleviate those difficulties at the appropriate stage. "The strength of the BCCI lies in its members and the matters of policy would only be firmed up with your inputs and upon the approval of the General Body," Shah concluded.

Due to bio-bubble restrictions, unable to invite you for start of IPL: Jay Shah to state units

With the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) coming under the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), the players set to participate in the much-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> will have to undergo random doping tests throughout the course of the season with the anti-doping agency planning 50 tests. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni among other top stars in the cash-rich tournament could be tested this season.

As per reports, NADA has put five ‘Dope Control Stations’ and both ‘in-competition’ and ‘out of competition’ tests will be done on players. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and related health protocols make collection of samples a tricky task.

NADA hasn’t chalked out the possibility of blood-sample collection even though urine samples are generally taken for dope tests. The report states that NADA DCO’s will be encouraged to take samples of leading Indian cricketers including the likes of Kohli, Dhoni, Rohit and others. But 50 tests seem a tad bit low with so many players participating in a tournament that will run for around two months.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-chris-gayle-tests-negative-for-covid-19-after-attending-usain-bolts-birthday-bash-322951" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash</a>

A total of three teams -- comprising of NADA officials and DCOs -- will be sent to UAE in three batches.

"The first batch will leave in the first week of September. Before their departure, all team members will be tested for Covid-19. Upon their arrival in the UAE, they will be tested again."

Players, under unprecedented circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic, will have to undergo COVID-19 tests on a regular basis. The dope tests by NADA to ensure no player has taken banned substance will only increase the pressure on players.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/silverwood-urges-england-to-finish-strong-and-see-anderson-to-600th-test-wickets-322924" hreflang="en">Silverwood urges England to finish strong and see Anderson to 600th Test wickets</a>

Furthermore, players need to be careful about not breaching the protocols including the bio-secure bubble that could put the entire IPL 2020 in trouble.&nbsp;

We've done quite well to get to Dubai safe and sound firstly. We've followed what's been told to us and I would expect everyone to be on the same page in terms of securing the bubble at all times and making sure that nothing is compromised because one mistake from any of us could literally spoil the whole tournament and none of us want to do that," Kohli said during a RCB virtual team meeting. &nbsp;

With the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) coming under the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), the players set to participate in the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 will have to undergo random doping tests throughout the course of the season with the anti-doping agency planning 50 tests.

With the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) coming under the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), the players set to participate in the much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 will have to undergo random doping tests throughout the course of the season with the anti-doping agency planning 50 tests. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni among other top stars in the cash-rich tournament could be tested this season. As per reports, NADA has put five ‘Dope Control Stations’ and both ‘in-competition’ and ‘out of competition’ tests will be done on players. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and related health protocols make collection of samples a tricky task. NADA hasn’t chalked out the possibility of blood-sample collection even though urine samples are generally taken for dope tests. The report states that NADA DCO’s will be encouraged to take samples of leading Indian cricketers including the likes of Kohli, Dhoni, Rohit and others. But 50 tests seem a tad bit low with so many players participating in a tournament that will run for around two months. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Chris Gayle tests negative for COVID-19 after attending Usain Bolt's birthday bash A total of three teams -- comprising of NADA officials and DCOs -- will be sent to UAE in three batches. "The first batch will leave in the first week of September. Before their departure, all team members will be tested for Covid-19. Upon their arrival in the UAE, they will be tested again." Players, under unprecedented circumstances surrounding COVID-19 pandemic, will have to undergo COVID-19 tests on a regular basis. The dope tests by NADA to ensure no player has taken banned substance will only increase the pressure on players. ALSO READ: Silverwood urges England to finish strong and see Anderson to 600th Test wickets Furthermore, players need to be careful about not breaching the protocols including the bio-secure bubble that could put the entire IPL 2020 in trouble. We've done quite well to get to Dubai safe and sound firstly. We've followed what's been told to us and I would expect everyone to be on the same page in terms of securing the bubble at all times and making sure that nothing is compromised because one mistake from any of us could literally spoil the whole tournament and none of us want to do that," Kohli said during a RCB virtual team meeting.

NADA plans to conduct 50 tests in IPL; Dhoni, Kohli's samples could be taken

With just three weeks to go for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl?page=1">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to release the schedule of the T20 tournament, which is set to take place in the UAE from September 19 to November 10. While fans are eagerly waiting for the schedule to release, IPL Governing Council Chairman has spilled beans on when they can expect the fixture list to be out.&nbsp;

Franchises have reached the UAE and are observing the seven-day self-isolation procedure in line with the UAE government’s COVID-19 protocols and will soon start practicing for the much-awaited IPL 2020.&nbsp;

Currently, the IPL GC members along with the IMG team of event managers are in the UAE to finalise the remaining details for the cash-rich tournament. The BCCI wants everything to be checked thoroughly before taking a final call in regards to the IPL 2020 schedule.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/covid-19-impact-future-group-no-longer-part-of-ipls-central-pool-of-sponsorship-322786" hreflang="en">COVID-19 Impact: Future Group no longer part of IPL's central pool of sponsorship</a>

IPL GC Chairman Brijesh Patel said that the franchises are looking at every details including recee of the venues while adding that schedule can be expected before the end of this week.&nbsp;

“We know it is getting delayed but teams are taking stock of everything including recee of the venues. Stay assured schedules will be released before the end of this week”, Brijesh Patel told InsideSport.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bangalore on Monday gave a glimpse of how the virtual team meetings will take place in IPL 2020 as every team member including the likes of Mike Hesson, Simon Katich, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers among others, attended the meeting via video-conference.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dinesh-karthik-opines-on-mankading-says-giving-warning-is-accepted-as-spirit-of-cricket-322738" hreflang="en">Dinesh Karthik opines on 'Mankading', says 'giving warning is accepted as spirit of cricket'</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Sneak peek into RCB’s first virtual team meeting of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> after landing in the UAE, with <a href="https://twitter.com/CoachHesson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CoachHesson</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> and Simon Katich welcoming the team and addressing them on an exciting season that’s right around the corner! 💻🤩<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoldDiaries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoldDiaries</a> <a href="https://t.co/VA4jY7HylN">pic.twitter.com/VA4jY7HylN</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1297843786140094465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The IPL 2020 is set to commence from September 19 with the final scheduled on November 10 in the UAE.

With just three weeks to go for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to release the schedule of the T20 tournament, which is set to take place in the UAE from September 19 to November 10.

With just three weeks to go for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to release the schedule of the T20 tournament, which is set to take place in the UAE from September 19 to November 10. While fans are eagerly waiting for the schedule to release, IPL Governing Council Chairman has spilled beans on when they can expect the fixture list to be out. Franchises have reached the UAE and are observing the seven-day self-isolation procedure in line with the UAE government’s COVID-19 protocols and will soon start practicing for the much-awaited IPL 2020. Currently, the IPL GC members along with the IMG team of event managers are in the UAE to finalise the remaining details for the cash-rich tournament. The BCCI wants everything to be checked thoroughly before taking a final call in regards to the IPL 2020 schedule. ALSO READ: COVID-19 Impact: Future Group no longer part of IPL's central pool of sponsorship IPL GC Chairman Brijesh Patel said that the franchises are looking at every details including recee of the venues while adding that schedule can be expected before the end of this week. “We know it is getting delayed but teams are taking stock of everything including recee of the venues. Stay assured schedules will be released before the end of this week”, Brijesh Patel told InsideSport. Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bangalore on Monday gave a glimpse of how the virtual team meetings will take place in IPL 2020 as every team member including the likes of Mike Hesson, Simon Katich, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers among others, attended the meeting via video-conference. ALSO READ: Dinesh Karthik opines on 'Mankading', says 'giving warning is accepted as spirit of cricket' Sneak peek into RCB’s first virtual team meeting of #IPL2020 after landing in the UAE, with @CoachHesson, @imVkohli and Simon Katich welcoming the team and addressing them on an exciting season that’s right around the corner! 💻🤩#PlayBold #BoldDiaries pic.twitter.com/VA4jY7HylN — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) August 24, 2020 × The IPL 2020 is set to commence from September 19 with the final scheduled on November 10 in the UAE.

When will IPL 2020 schedule release? Brijesh Patel spills the beans

Retail conglomerate Future Group, which is currently going through a restructuring phase, has pulled out of BCCI's central sponsorship list for the Indian Premier League.

Future Group has been forced to pull out as the company is reportedly on the verge of a takeover and has suffered losses due to the prevailing hostile economic climate in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Yes, Future Group has pulled out of IPL central sponsorship and that's the reason their logo has been removed from the IPL website. At this point of time, I won't like to elaborate on the development," a BCCI veteran confirmed the development to PTI.

When a Future Group official was contacted, he refused comment but industry insiders confirmed that the pullout was on cards because of the financial health of the company.

"Future Group has been in bad shape since the start of COVID-19. It was bound to happen that they wouldn't have been able to spend Rs 40 crore to be a part of BCCI's central sponsorship pool. Hence, the pull-out is not a surprise," the source said.

"Right now, the Future Group is going through a restructuring phase and there are talks with multi-national conglomerates about its potential takeover in the next few weeks. So sponsoring sporting events at the moment wasn't top priority for Future Group," he added.

It is learnt that education-technology company Unacademy, which lost the IPL title sponsorship bid to fantasy gaming firm Dream11, is in line to become one of the official sponsors along with credit card payment app Cred. As of now, the IPL website shows only four sponsors.

They are Dream11 as title sponsors along with Tata Motors (Altroz), PayTM and Ceat tyres.

The BCCI normally shares half of its central sponsorship kitty with the franchises.

However, with the title sponsorship amount reduced to nearly half (from Rs 440 crore from Vivo to Rs 222 crore of Dream11) and the subsequent pull-outs, the teams are set to get lesser than what they were earning earlier.

"We know it's not an ideal situation but you can't blame BCCI for this. There is a financial crisis. If franchises have earned and made gains during good times, they understand and stand by BCCI during troubled times," a senior official of a franchise said.

Retail conglomerate Future Group, which is currently going through a restructuring phase, has pulled out of BCCI's central sponsorship list for the Indian Premier League.

Retail conglomerate Future Group, which is currently going through a restructuring phase, has pulled out of BCCI's central sponsorship list for the Indian Premier League. Future Group has been forced to pull out as the company is reportedly on the verge of a takeover and has suffered losses due to the prevailing hostile economic climate in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. "Yes, Future Group has pulled out of IPL central sponsorship and that's the reason their logo has been removed from the IPL website. At this point of time, I won't like to elaborate on the development," a BCCI veteran confirmed the development to PTI. When a Future Group official was contacted, he refused comment but industry insiders confirmed that the pullout was on cards because of the financial health of the company. "Future Group has been in bad shape since the start of COVID-19. It was bound to happen that they wouldn't have been able to spend Rs 40 crore to be a part of BCCI's central sponsorship pool. Hence, the pull-out is not a surprise," the source said. "Right now, the Future Group is going through a restructuring phase and there are talks with multi-national conglomerates about its potential takeover in the next few weeks. So sponsoring sporting events at the moment wasn't top priority for Future Group," he added. It is learnt that education-technology company Unacademy, which lost the IPL title sponsorship bid to fantasy gaming firm Dream11, is in line to become one of the official sponsors along with credit card payment app Cred. As of now, the IPL website shows only four sponsors. They are Dream11 as title sponsors along with Tata Motors (Altroz), PayTM and Ceat tyres. The BCCI normally shares half of its central sponsorship kitty with the franchises. However, with the title sponsorship amount reduced to nearly half (from Rs 440 crore from Vivo to Rs 222 crore of Dream11) and the subsequent pull-outs, the teams are set to get lesser than what they were earning earlier. "We know it's not an ideal situation but you can't blame BCCI for this. There is a financial crisis. If franchises have earned and made gains during good times, they understand and stand by BCCI during troubled times," a senior official of a franchise said.

COVID-19 Impact: Future Group no longer part of IPL's central pool of sponsorship

There was a massive uproar in the Indian cricket fraternity when Delhi Capitals coach and former Australian captain Ricky Ponting said that he will have a word with veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in relation to ‘Mankad’ mode of dismissal in the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> while adding he won’t allow Ashwin to use that form of dismissal in their matches.&nbsp;

While the mode of dismissal falls within the rules, some find it outside the boundary lines of ‘spirit of cricket’. The debate regarding ‘Mankad’ mode of dismissal started when Ravichandran Ashwin decided to run-out non-striker Jos Buttler in IPL 2019 which even led to Jimmy Anderson ripping apart Ashwin’s photograph in a shredder.&nbsp;

Kolkata Knight Riders captain and veteran Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik has now opined on 'Mankading' as he said even the likes of Don Bradman and Sunil Gavaskar have said it is within the laws. Karthik added that there’s no reason to take the mode of dismissal in a negative way. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-bio-bubble-to-keep-corrupt-bookies-in-check-bcci-acu-chief-322223" hreflang="en">IPL bio-bubble to keep corrupt bookies in check: BCCI ACU chief</a>

<h2>The ICC and MCC call it a run out: Dinesh Karthik</h2>

“All the way from Don Bradman to Sunil Gavaskar, everyone has said it's completely within the rules. The ICC and MCC have also taken a stand that it is okay. So I don't see the reason why bowlers or any team that does it is looked at in a negative way,” Karthik told CricketNext.&nbsp;

"If Mankad was the first person who did that run out, Bill Brown was the first person who got run out for being silly and walking out of the crease. Why is it that people remember Mankad and not Brown? He (Mankad) followed the rules and did it. He (Brown) was even given a warning. Giving a warning to the batter is accepted as spirit of cricket. The ICC and MCC call it a run out. So the name Mankad shouldn't be used in a negative connotation,” he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-ponting-warns-ashwin-he-wont-have-mankading-in-delhi-capitals-321872" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Ponting warns Ashwin he won't have 'Mankading' in Delhi Capitals</a>

Reacting to Karthik’s opinion on the dismissal, Ashwin tweeted: “Make it a free ball for the bowler. If the batsmen get out of that ball, the batting team will be docked 5 runs. Free hit adds to the drama for a batter, let’s give a chance to the bowlers too. As of now everyone watches the game hoping that ‘the bowlers will get smacked today’"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Make it a free ball for the bowler. If the batsmen gets out of that ball, the batting team will be docked 5 runs. Free hit adds to the drama for a batter, let’s give a chance to the bowlers too. As of now everyone watches the game hoping that ‘the bowlers will get smacked today’ <a href="https://t.co/BxX8IsMgvF">https://t.co/BxX8IsMgvF</a>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1297765456045105153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Karthik will be next seen leading&nbsp;Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2020 starting from September 19 in the UAE.

There was a massive uproar in the Indian cricket fraternity when Delhi Capitals coach and former Australian captain Ricky Ponting said that he will have a word with veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in relation to ‘Mankad’ mode of dismissal in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 while adding he won’t allow Ashwin to use that form of dismissal in their matches.

There was a massive uproar in the Indian cricket fraternity when Delhi Capitals coach and former Australian captain Ricky Ponting said that he will have a word with veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in relation to ‘Mankad’ mode of dismissal in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 while adding he won’t allow Ashwin to use that form of dismissal in their matches. While the mode of dismissal falls within the rules, some find it outside the boundary lines of ‘spirit of cricket’. The debate regarding ‘Mankad’ mode of dismissal started when Ravichandran Ashwin decided to run-out non-striker Jos Buttler in IPL 2019 which even led to Jimmy Anderson ripping apart Ashwin’s photograph in a shredder. Kolkata Knight Riders captain and veteran Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik has now opined on 'Mankading' as he said even the likes of Don Bradman and Sunil Gavaskar have said it is within the laws. Karthik added that there’s no reason to take the mode of dismissal in a negative way. ALSO READ: IPL bio-bubble to keep corrupt bookies in check: BCCI ACU chief The ICC and MCC call it a run out: Dinesh Karthik “All the way from Don Bradman to Sunil Gavaskar, everyone has said it's completely within the rules. The ICC and MCC have also taken a stand that it is okay. So I don't see the reason why bowlers or any team that does it is looked at in a negative way,” Karthik told CricketNext. "If Mankad was the first person who did that run out, Bill Brown was the first person who got run out for being silly and walking out of the crease. Why is it that people remember Mankad and not Brown? He (Mankad) followed the rules and did it. He (Brown) was even given a warning. Giving a warning to the batter is accepted as spirit of cricket. The ICC and MCC call it a run out. So the name Mankad shouldn't be used in a negative connotation,” he added. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Ponting warns Ashwin he won't have 'Mankading' in Delhi Capitals Reacting to Karthik’s opinion on the dismissal, Ashwin tweeted: “Make it a free ball for the bowler. If the batsmen get out of that ball, the batting team will be docked 5 runs. Free hit adds to the drama for a batter, let’s give a chance to the bowlers too. As of now everyone watches the game hoping that ‘the bowlers will get smacked today’" Make it a free ball for the bowler. If the batsmen gets out of that ball, the batting team will be docked 5 runs. Free hit adds to the drama for a batter, let’s give a chance to the bowlers too. As of now everyone watches the game hoping that ‘the bowlers will get smacked today’ https://t.co/BxX8IsMgvF — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) August 24, 2020 × Karthik will be next seen leading Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2020 starting from September 19 in the UAE.

Dinesh Karthik opines on 'Mankading', says 'giving warning is accepted as spirit of cricket'

With the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl?page=1">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> set to commence from September 19 in the UAE, franchises will be staying inside bio-secure bubble in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19. While the bubbles can become frustrating when staying indoors for a long time, like in IPL 2020 for around two months, the head of BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit has said it will at least make life difficult for illegal gambling rights to approach players.&nbsp;

Players’ movements will be restricted and heavily monitored as part of strict COVID-19 protocols by the BCCI as they gear up to stay inside bio-secure bubble for the course of the tournament.

“The IPL being held in a bio-secure bubble is going to make a difference because no interaction is allowed with the outsiders,” Ajit Singh, head of the Indian cricket board’s (BCCI) Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) told Reuters.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mumbai-indians-lasith-malinga-set-to-miss-first-phase-of-ipl-2020-in-uae-322201" hreflang="en">Mumbai Indians' Lasith Malinga set to miss first phase of IPL 2020 in UAE</a>

“So that part will be slightly easily managed.

“The other part is social media etc. through which people try to make contact and communicate, that we’ll have to take care of.”

With no fans allowed inside the stadiums, interaction sessions are likely to be over social media but Singh said the ACU would be keeping an eye on those activities.&nbsp;

“People do try to make innocent contacts also. But under the garb of friendship or as a fan, there could be an odd chap trying to explore things.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-announces-dream11-as-title-sponsor-for-ipl-2020-321705" hreflang="en">BCCI announces Dream11 as title sponsor for IPL 2020</a>

“Monitoring social media does not require much manpower. We’ll be taking help of professionals also.”

The IPL was hit by an illegal betting scandal in the year 2013, which led to two-year suspensions for Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals. Two security liason officers have been allotted to each team the 53-day tournament.

The ACU is also looking for help from the anti-corruption unit of the governing International Cricket Council (ICC), headquartered in Dubai.&nbsp;

“ICC won’t have anything to do directly, but we do exchange information with them during normal course. So if needed, we’ll do that again,” Singh said.

(With inputs from Reuters)

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 set to commence from September 19 in the UAE, franchises will be staying inside bio-secure bubble in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19.

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 set to commence from September 19 in the UAE, franchises will be staying inside bio-secure bubble in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19. While the bubbles can become frustrating when staying indoors for a long time, like in IPL 2020 for around two months, the head of BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit has said it will at least make life difficult for illegal gambling rights to approach players. Players’ movements will be restricted and heavily monitored as part of strict COVID-19 protocols by the BCCI as they gear up to stay inside bio-secure bubble for the course of the tournament. “The IPL being held in a bio-secure bubble is going to make a difference because no interaction is allowed with the outsiders,” Ajit Singh, head of the Indian cricket board’s (BCCI) Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) told Reuters. ALSO READ: Mumbai Indians' Lasith Malinga set to miss first phase of IPL 2020 in UAE “So that part will be slightly easily managed. “The other part is social media etc. through which people try to make contact and communicate, that we’ll have to take care of.” With no fans allowed inside the stadiums, interaction sessions are likely to be over social media but Singh said the ACU would be keeping an eye on those activities. “People do try to make innocent contacts also. But under the garb of friendship or as a fan, there could be an odd chap trying to explore things. ALSO READ: BCCI announces Dream11 as title sponsor for IPL 2020 “Monitoring social media does not require much manpower. We’ll be taking help of professionals also.” The IPL was hit by an illegal betting scandal in the year 2013, which led to two-year suspensions for Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals. Two security liason officers have been allotted to each team the 53-day tournament. The ACU is also looking for help from the anti-corruption unit of the governing International Cricket Council (ICC), headquartered in Dubai. “ICC won’t have anything to do directly, but we do exchange information with them during normal course. So if needed, we’ll do that again,” Singh said. (With inputs from Reuters)

IPL bio-bubble to keep corrupt bookies in check: BCCI ACU chief

Iconic Sri Lankan speedster Lasith Malinga is set to miss the initial phase of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl?page=1">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> due to personal reasons and will not be travelling to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where the cash-rich tournament will be played from September 19 to November 10.&nbsp;

As per a report in ESPNcricinfo, Malinga’s father has been ill and may require a surgery in the coming weeks. The legendary Sri Lankan pacer wants to stay with his father and will be training in Colombo to be ready for IPL in the latter phase of the tournament. Malinga is likely to join the Mumbai Indians camp during the final stages of the tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-ponting-warns-ashwin-he-wont-have-mankading-in-delhi-capitals-321872" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Ponting warns Ashwin he won't have 'Mankading' in Delhi Capitals</a>

One of the deadliest bowlers in the game and famous for his yorkers, Malinga famously defended eight runs in the final over of IPL 2020 against Chennai Super Kings as he helped the Mumbai outfit lift a record fourth title. When CSK needed two runs to win on the final delivery, Malinga nailed a yorker to dismiss Shardul Thakur to seal a memorable win.

As per the report, Sri Lanka’s strict quarantine protocol forced him to stay in Sri Lanka as he would have to spend 14 days in quarantine if he flew to the UAE and then came back to see his father any point. Malinga is second highest wicket-taker in T20s behind Dwayne Bravo and sits atop the list in IPL with 170 wickets after joining Mumbai Indians in 2009.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-delhi-capitals-sign-anrich-nortje-as-chris-woakes-replacement-321427" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Delhi Capitals sign Anrich Nortje as Chris Woakes replacement</a>

However, Mumbai have the likes of Trent Boult, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Mitchell McClenaghan to fill the gap left by Malinga’s absence. 
&nbsp;

Iconic Sri Lankan speedster Lasith Malinga is set to miss the initial phase of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to personal reasons and will not be travelling to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where the cash-rich tournament will be played from September 19 to November 10.

Iconic Sri Lankan speedster Lasith Malinga is set to miss the initial phase of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to personal reasons and will not be travelling to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where the cash-rich tournament will be played from September 19 to November 10. As per a report in ESPNcricinfo, Malinga’s father has been ill and may require a surgery in the coming weeks. The legendary Sri Lankan pacer wants to stay with his father and will be training in Colombo to be ready for IPL in the latter phase of the tournament. Malinga is likely to join the Mumbai Indians camp during the final stages of the tournament. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Ponting warns Ashwin he won't have 'Mankading' in Delhi Capitals One of the deadliest bowlers in the game and famous for his yorkers, Malinga famously defended eight runs in the final over of IPL 2020 against Chennai Super Kings as he helped the Mumbai outfit lift a record fourth title. When CSK needed two runs to win on the final delivery, Malinga nailed a yorker to dismiss Shardul Thakur to seal a memorable win. As per the report, Sri Lanka’s strict quarantine protocol forced him to stay in Sri Lanka as he would have to spend 14 days in quarantine if he flew to the UAE and then came back to see his father any point. Malinga is second highest wicket-taker in T20s behind Dwayne Bravo and sits atop the list in IPL with 170 wickets after joining Mumbai Indians in 2009. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Delhi Capitals sign Anrich Nortje as Chris Woakes replacement However, Mumbai have the likes of Trent Boult, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Mitchell McClenaghan to fill the gap left by Malinga’s absence.

Mumbai Indians' Lasith Malinga set to miss first phase of IPL 2020 in UAE

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday officially announced that Dream11 has been awarded the title sponsorship for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl?page=1">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>, which is scheduled to start from September 19 to November 10 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Dream11 comes to the board after the BCCI and Chinese mobile manufacturing giants Vivo parted ways for the 13th edition of IPL. In the statement released by the BCCI, the Indian board clarifies that Dream11 (Sporta Technologies Pvt. Ltd) is an Indian company based in Mumbai, Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Dream11 shelled out INR 222 crore to become the title sponsor of IPL 2020, which is expected to be the most-watch IPL edition. Moreover, Dream11 are associated with six IPL franchises as well. The fantasy gaming platform has also partnered with a total of 19 sports leagues across the world.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-eager-to-host-farewell-match-for-ms-dhoni-321694" hreflang="en">BCCI eager to host farewell match for MS Dhoni</a>

Mr Brijesh Patel, Chairman, IPL, said: “We welcome Dream11 on board as Title Sponsor for the 2020 edition of the IPL. Dream11 upgrading their association from an Official Partner to Title Sponsors is a great testament to the brand IPL. Dream11 as a fantasy sports brand will only grow the engagement of the IPL with its fans. As a digital brand it will give them leverage to create exciting online engagement for fans sitting at home and watching the matches. We look forward to delivering great value to Dream11.”

Mr Harsh Jain, CEO &amp; Co-Founder, Dream Sports (Dream11) said: “The launch of IPL in 2008 gave birth to the idea of Dream11. As avid sports fans, we wanted to offer fantasy cricket to IPL fans to help them further engage with the sport they love and showcase their sports knowledge &amp; skill. Being a proud homegrown Indian brand that is made in India, by Indians and exclusively for Indian sports fans, we would like to thank the BCCI for giving us an opportunity to become the Title Sponsor of IPL, which in our opinion is the world’s greatest sports property.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cpl-2020-rashid-khans-ridiculous-helicopter-flick-takes-social-media-by-storm-watch-321653" hreflang="en">CPL 2020: Rashid Khan's 'ridiculous' helicopter flick takes social media by storm - Watch</a>

“We believe that ‘Dream11 IPL’ also perfectly defines what IPL is all about: every team fielding its Dream11 team culminating in the IPL finals determining The Dream11. We are happy to continue building our partnership with BCCI &amp; IPL to further promote sports fan engagement in India, and look forward to 10 Crore+ Indians making their Dream11 for every Dream11 IPL match.” 
&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday officially announced that Dream11 has been awarded the title sponsorship for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which is scheduled to start from September 19 to November 10 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday officially announced that Dream11 has been awarded the title sponsorship for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, which is scheduled to start from September 19 to November 10 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Dream11 comes to the board after the BCCI and Chinese mobile manufacturing giants Vivo parted ways for the 13th edition of IPL. In the statement released by the BCCI, the Indian board clarifies that Dream11 (Sporta Technologies Pvt. Ltd) is an Indian company based in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Dream11 shelled out INR 222 crore to become the title sponsor of IPL 2020, which is expected to be the most-watch IPL edition. Moreover, Dream11 are associated with six IPL franchises as well. The fantasy gaming platform has also partnered with a total of 19 sports leagues across the world. ALSO READ: BCCI eager to host farewell match for MS Dhoni Mr Brijesh Patel, Chairman, IPL, said: “We welcome Dream11 on board as Title Sponsor for the 2020 edition of the IPL. Dream11 upgrading their association from an Official Partner to Title Sponsors is a great testament to the brand IPL. Dream11 as a fantasy sports brand will only grow the engagement of the IPL with its fans. As a digital brand it will give them leverage to create exciting online engagement for fans sitting at home and watching the matches. We look forward to delivering great value to Dream11.” Mr Harsh Jain, CEO & Co-Founder, Dream Sports (Dream11) said: “The launch of IPL in 2008 gave birth to the idea of Dream11. As avid sports fans, we wanted to offer fantasy cricket to IPL fans to help them further engage with the sport they love and showcase their sports knowledge & skill. Being a proud homegrown Indian brand that is made in India, by Indians and exclusively for Indian sports fans, we would like to thank the BCCI for giving us an opportunity to become the Title Sponsor of IPL, which in our opinion is the world’s greatest sports property. ALSO READ: CPL 2020: Rashid Khan's 'ridiculous' helicopter flick takes social media by storm - Watch “We believe that ‘Dream11 IPL’ also perfectly defines what IPL is all about: every team fielding its Dream11 team culminating in the IPL finals determining The Dream11. We are happy to continue building our partnership with BCCI & IPL to further promote sports fan engagement in India, and look forward to 10 Crore+ Indians making their Dream11 for every Dream11 IPL match.”

BCCI announces Dream11 as title sponsor for IPL 2020

South African speedster Anrich Nortje has been roped in by Delhi Capitals to replace England’s Chris Woakes in the upcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>, scheduled to be held in the UAE from September 19 to November 10.

English all-rounder, Woakes had pulled out of the cash-rich T20 tournament in March due to family commitments after being signed up by the Delhi franchise for $200,000 in the auctions, held in December 2019.

However, after much wait, DC has signed in Nortje who will join fellow South African pacer Kagiso Rabada in the squad for the 13th edition of IPL, the franchise announced on Tuesday.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A 🇿🇦 fast bowler ✅ 
Clocks 150 km/hr ✅ 
Yorker specialist ✅ 
 
We've heard that before, haven't we? 😉<a href="https://twitter.com/KagisoRabada25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KagisoRabada25</a>, time to welcome your new bowling companion 😎<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeAnrich?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeAnrich</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AnrichNortje02?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnrichNortje02</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://t.co/AQO61nhxXl">pic.twitter.com/AQO61nhxXl</a>
— Delhi Capitals (Tweeting from 🏠) (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1295609062818590722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I am excited to join the Delhi Capitals, a team that was the talk of the tournament last season," Nortje said of the franchise, coached by Australian great Ricky Ponting.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
And we can't wait to watch you steam in and let it rip 🔥 
 
Welcome to the Capitals, <a href="https://twitter.com/AnrichNortje02?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnrichNortje02</a> 🙌🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeAnrich?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeAnrich</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiNayiDilli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiNayiDilli</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZyoPm0Cw5v">pic.twitter.com/ZyoPm0Cw5v</a>
— Delhi Capitals (Tweeting from 🏠) (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/1295601514510036992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-finch-to-maxwell-list-of-players-set-to-miss-first-week-of-ipl-2020-320516" hreflang="en">From Finch to Maxwell: List of players set to miss first week of IPL 2020</a>

"With its exciting mix of experienced and young players, and a stellar coaching line-up, there is no doubt this is going to be a massive learning experience for me."&nbsp;

Nortje was named Cricket South Africa’s newcomer of the year for 2020 and has played six Tests for the Proteas since making his debut in Pune in 2019. He is not only an express fast bowler but also a handy customer with the bat and will provide much depth to the DC side.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ipl-2020-excited-to-play-for-kings-xi-punjab-and-under-kl-rahul-ishan-porel-320231" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Excited to play for Kings XI Punjab and under KL Rahul: Ishan Porel</a>

Nortje was with Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2019 but a shoulder injury forced him to sit on the sidelines as he was unable to make his IPL debut.

Meanwhile, the title sponsor for IPL 2020 is also on the verge of being announced with the likes of Tata Sons, Unacademy leading the race. The schedule for IPL 2020 is also expected to be announced soon.

South African speedster Anrich Nortje has been roped in by Delhi Capitals to replace England’s Chris Woakes in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, scheduled to be held in the UAE from September 19 to November 10.

South African speedster Anrich Nortje has been roped in by Delhi Capitals to replace England’s Chris Woakes in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, scheduled to be held in the UAE from September 19 to November 10. English all-rounder, Woakes had pulled out of the cash-rich T20 tournament in March due to family commitments after being signed up by the Delhi franchise for $200,000 in the auctions, held in December 2019. However, after much wait, DC has signed in Nortje who will join fellow South African pacer Kagiso Rabada in the squad for the 13th edition of IPL, the franchise announced on Tuesday. A 🇿🇦 fast bowler ✅ Clocks 150 km/hr ✅ Yorker specialist ✅ We've heard that before, haven't we? 😉@KagisoRabada25, time to welcome your new bowling companion 😎#WelcomeAnrich @AnrichNortje02 #IPL2020 #YehHaiNayiDilli pic.twitter.com/AQO61nhxXl — Delhi Capitals (Tweeting from 🏠) (@DelhiCapitals) August 18, 2020 × "I am excited to join the Delhi Capitals, a team that was the talk of the tournament last season," Nortje said of the franchise, coached by Australian great Ricky Ponting. And we can't wait to watch you steam in and let it rip 🔥 Welcome to the Capitals, @AnrichNortje02 🙌🏻#WelcomeAnrich#IPL2020 #YehHaiNayiDilli pic.twitter.com/ZyoPm0Cw5v — Delhi Capitals (Tweeting from 🏠) (@DelhiCapitals) August 18, 2020 × ALSO READ: From Finch to Maxwell: List of players set to miss first week of IPL 2020 "With its exciting mix of experienced and young players, and a stellar coaching line-up, there is no doubt this is going to be a massive learning experience for me." Nortje was named Cricket South Africa’s newcomer of the year for 2020 and has played six Tests for the Proteas since making his debut in Pune in 2019. He is not only an express fast bowler but also a handy customer with the bat and will provide much depth to the DC side. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Excited to play for Kings XI Punjab and under KL Rahul: Ishan Porel Nortje was with Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2019 but a shoulder injury forced him to sit on the sidelines as he was unable to make his IPL debut. Meanwhile, the title sponsor for IPL 2020 is also on the verge of being announced with the likes of Tata Sons, Unacademy leading the race. The schedule for IPL 2020 is also expected to be announced soon.

IPL 2020: Delhi Capitals sign Anrich Nortje as Chris Woakes replacement

An <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl?page=1">Indian Premier League</a> cricket team has signed a sponsorship deal with a sanitary pad brand, challenging the country's entrenched taboos around menstruation.

The Rajasthan Royals, who feature England stars Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer, said they hoped the Niine brand sponsorship will "help educate men... on a grand scale".

Deep-rooted social taboos remain in India around menstruating women. In some rural areas, women are made to sleep separately during periods and are banned from entering temples.

The Niine logo will be on the back of the player jerseys for the tournament, which this year is being held in the United Arab Emirates because of the coronavirus pandemic, starting September 19.

"Cricket undoubtedly is the most watched sport in the country and provides the perfect platform to address health and drive social change," the Royals said in a statement.

"Rajasthan Royals are poised to be the vehicle that will help educate men through the IPL 2020 season by building not only awareness but also understanding on a grand scale," the statement added.

A Royals spokesperson declined to give financial details of the deal when approached by AFP.

An Indian Premier League cricket team has signed a sponsorship deal with a sanitary pad brand, challenging the country's entrenched taboos around menstruation. The Rajasthan Royals, who feature England stars Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer, said they hoped the Niine brand sponsorship will "help educate men.

An Indian Premier League cricket team has signed a sponsorship deal with a sanitary pad brand, challenging the country's entrenched taboos around menstruation. The Rajasthan Royals, who feature England stars Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer, said they hoped the Niine brand sponsorship will "help educate men... on a grand scale". Deep-rooted social taboos remain in India around menstruating women. In some rural areas, women are made to sleep separately during periods and are banned from entering temples. The Niine logo will be on the back of the player jerseys for the tournament, which this year is being held in the United Arab Emirates because of the coronavirus pandemic, starting September 19. "Cricket undoubtedly is the most watched sport in the country and provides the perfect platform to address health and drive social change," the Royals said in a statement. "Rajasthan Royals are poised to be the vehicle that will help educate men through the IPL 2020 season by building not only awareness but also understanding on a grand scale," the statement added. A Royals spokesperson declined to give financial details of the deal when approached by AFP.

Breaking taboo, IPL's Rajasthan Royals get sanitary pad sponsor

IPL Governing Council Chairman Brijesh Patel on Tuesday announced that fantasy gaming platform Dream11 has been awarded the title sponsorship for the much-talked-about Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 19 to November 10.

While the announcement came as a sigh of relief for cricket lovers who are eagerly waiting for all backroom developments to be concluded as soon as possible so that the lucrative and arguably the best T20 tournament in the world can go ahead, the Chinese-backed Dream11 being handed the title sponsorship for IPL 2020 wasn’t digested well over social media platforms.&nbsp;

Dream11 bagged the title sponsorship deal with a whopping INR 222 crore (around $30 million) bid racing ahead of others in contention. While the Tata group didn’t place a final bid, two edu-tech companies, BYJU's and Unacademy,&nbsp;in the race came second and third. The deal with Dream11 also sees the BCCI take almost 50 per cent financial hit given that the deal with Chinese mobile manufacturing giants Vivo fetched them INR 440 crore ($66m) a year.&nbsp;

With anti-China sentiments running high in India following the border skirmish between the two countries at Galwan valley 20 Army personnel were killed in a faceoff in what was the biggest confrontation between the two militaries after their 1967 clashes in Nathu La, the BCCI said it will review IPL's sponsorship deals, including the one with Chinese mobile manufacturing company Vivo. The meeting never happened but months later Vivo and the BCCI mutually agreed to pause the deal for a year. The development was well received by everyone in India.&nbsp;

However, IPL 2020’s title sponsor – Dream11 – has Chinese investment in the company by Tencent - the world's largest video game company, one of the world's most financially valuable companies. On Dream11 investors' section on their website, the company lists four organizations. Steadview - a leading India-focused investment firm, Tencent - which claims to use technology to enrich lives of internet users and is founded in Shenzen, China in 1998, Multiples - an India-focused investment advisory firm that managers Private Equity Funds and Think Investments - an investment fund headquartered in San Francisco. The only questionable investor in India’s point of view is Tencent, which is also behind massively popular video game – PUBG.&nbsp;

<img alt="Dream11 " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="843a4052-5ef4-4557-b4e0-ac0c0ae4525e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Efs4mgBVAAEbfxO.jpg" />

However, a BCCI source told PTI that Tencent holds less than 10 per cent in Dream11, which is an Indian company founded by Harsh Jain and Bhavit Sheth.&nbsp;

"Dream11 stakeholders, including its founders plus all 400 plus employees, are Indian," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by PTI.&nbsp;

"Their Indian investors are Kalaari Capital and Multiples Equity. Even Dream11's product is available exclusively for use only by Indians. Only a single-digit percentage minority stake is held by Tencent," the official added.

But it was earlier reported by many media portals that Tencent holds a majority stake in Dream11. Tencent had invested over $100 million in the Indian gaming unicorn in 2018 and naturally would be looking for profits, which they may have well received given Dream11’s stunning rise in recent years.

<img alt="Dream11 " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fef9d59e-0f3d-462a-b14e-5592b3a8ac59" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Efsb9paU4AAyKp4.jpg" />

Not only that, Dream11 fell into trouble in July, 2020 when the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) had sought an inquiry against the company when the platform had links to a fake T20 league which was held in Punjab but was live-streamed as a match in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

The ACU investigations cleared that kits used by the teams in the tournament had Dream11 logo and the matches were live-streamed on FanCode – another part of Dream Sports Group.

But the question remains, does bringing Dream11 solves the issue of providing exposure to Chinese companies? Was the Vivo deal pullout all about anti-China sentiments in India?&nbsp;

Many claim that Vivo deal was put on hold as the mobile manufacturing company was unwilling to shell out INR 440 crore for a year amid COVID-19 pandemic and obviously, the social media backlash didn’t help the cause either. While Dream11 is not an out and out Chinese company unlike Vivo, the profits company will be bagging with the deal, a part of it, in all probability, will reach Tencent.&nbsp;

"As a well-wisher of Indian sports, I wish and pray that IPL 13 is held successfully in the UAE. However, with Dream11 becoming the title sponsor of IPL, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dream of 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat' will be a bit shattered as Dream11 is a Chinese company. It has also come to fore that the company has a huge investment in one of the IPL franchises," Secretary of Cricket Association of Bihar (CAB) Aditya Verma was quoted as saying by IANS.

Dream11 now doesn’t only hold the title sponsorship rights but is also partners with seven IPL teams -Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab.&nbsp;

Keeping aside other sports, Dream11 has exclusively managed the Official Fantasy Game of VIVO IPL since 2019. It has also acquired Official Partner rights of BCCI’s international and domestic matches since 2019.

With IPL 2020 expected to break all the TV records, the exposure and profit Dream11’s investors would be getting is unprecedented. Still, the question remains, does Dream11 bagging IPL 2020 title sponsorship put the main issue to bed? Perhaps, no.

IPL Governing Council Chairman Brijesh Patel on Tuesday announced that fantasy gaming platform Dream11 has been awarded the title sponsorship for the much-talked-about Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 19 to November 10.

IPL Governing Council Chairman Brijesh Patel on Tuesday announced that fantasy gaming platform Dream11 has been awarded the title sponsorship for the much-talked-about Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 scheduled to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 19 to November 10. While the announcement came as a sigh of relief for cricket lovers who are eagerly waiting for all backroom developments to be concluded as soon as possible so that the lucrative and arguably the best T20 tournament in the world can go ahead, the Chinese-backed Dream11 being handed the title sponsorship for IPL 2020 wasn’t digested well over social media platforms. Dream11 bagged the title sponsorship deal with a whopping INR 222 crore (around $30 million) bid racing ahead of others in contention. While the Tata group didn’t place a final bid, two edu-tech companies, BYJU's and Unacademy, in the race came second and third. The deal with Dream11 also sees the BCCI take almost 50 per cent financial hit given that the deal with Chinese mobile manufacturing giants Vivo fetched them INR 440 crore ($66m) a year. With anti-China sentiments running high in India following the border skirmish between the two countries at Galwan valley 20 Army personnel were killed in a faceoff in what was the biggest confrontation between the two militaries after their 1967 clashes in Nathu La, the BCCI said it will review IPL's sponsorship deals, including the one with Chinese mobile manufacturing company Vivo. The meeting never happened but months later Vivo and the BCCI mutually agreed to pause the deal for a year. The development was well received by everyone in India. However, IPL 2020’s title sponsor – Dream11 – has Chinese investment in the company by Tencent - the world's largest video game company, one of the world's most financially valuable companies. On Dream11 investors' section on their website, the company lists four organizations. Steadview - a leading India-focused investment firm, Tencent - which claims to use technology to enrich lives of internet users and is founded in Shenzen, China in 1998, Multiples - an India-focused investment advisory firm that managers Private Equity Funds and Think Investments - an investment fund headquartered in San Francisco. The only questionable investor in India’s point of view is Tencent, which is also behind massively popular video game – PUBG. However, a BCCI source told PTI that Tencent holds less than 10 per cent in Dream11, which is an Indian company founded by Harsh Jain and Bhavit Sheth. "Dream11 stakeholders, including its founders plus all 400 plus employees, are Indian," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by PTI. "Their Indian investors are Kalaari Capital and Multiples Equity. Even Dream11's product is available exclusively for use only by Indians. Only a single-digit percentage minority stake is held by Tencent," the official added. But it was earlier reported by many media portals that Tencent holds a majority stake in Dream11. Tencent had invested over $100 million in the Indian gaming unicorn in 2018 and naturally would be looking for profits, which they may have well received given Dream11’s stunning rise in recent years. Not only that, Dream11 fell into trouble in July, 2020 when the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) had sought an inquiry against the company when the platform had links to a fake T20 league which was held in Punjab but was live-streamed as a match in Sri Lanka. The ACU investigations cleared that kits used by the teams in the tournament had Dream11 logo and the matches were live-streamed on FanCode – another part of Dream Sports Group. But the question remains, does bringing Dream11 solves the issue of providing exposure to Chinese companies? Was the Vivo deal pullout all about anti-China sentiments in India? Many claim that Vivo deal was put on hold as the mobile manufacturing company was unwilling to shell out INR 440 crore for a year amid COVID-19 pandemic and obviously, the social media backlash didn’t help the cause either. While Dream11 is not an out and out Chinese company unlike Vivo, the profits company will be bagging with the deal, a part of it, in all probability, will reach Tencent. "As a well-wisher of Indian sports, I wish and pray that IPL 13 is held successfully in the UAE. However, with Dream11 becoming the title sponsor of IPL, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dream of 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat' will be a bit shattered as Dream11 is a Chinese company. It has also come to fore that the company has a huge investment in one of the IPL franchises," Secretary of Cricket Association of Bihar (CAB) Aditya Verma was quoted as saying by IANS. Dream11 now doesn’t only hold the title sponsorship rights but is also partners with seven IPL teams -Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab. Keeping aside other sports, Dream11 has exclusively managed the Official Fantasy Game of VIVO IPL since 2019. It has also acquired Official Partner rights of BCCI’s international and domestic matches since 2019. With IPL 2020 expected to break all the TV records, the exposure and profit Dream11’s investors would be getting is unprecedented. Still, the question remains, does Dream11 bagging IPL 2020 title sponsorship put the main issue to bed? Perhaps, no.

IPL 2020: Dream11, Tencent and Chinese connection

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to award the title sponsorship rights of the lucrative <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> to Dream11. Already a sponsor for the BCCI, Dream11 raced ahead of heavy favourites Tata Sons and edu-tech company Unacademy and BYJU’s.

Dream11 bagged the title sponsorship of IPL 2020 due to their financial bid despite the BCCI saying that money won’t be the only factor in the bidding process. Apparently, Dream11 submitted a bid of INR 222&nbsp;crore with Unacademy following close with INR 170 crore bid. Tatas and Byju’s had submitted a bit of INR 180 and 170 crore respectively.

"Fantasy sports platform Dream11 wins IPL title sponsorship rights with a bid of Rs 222 crore,"&nbsp;IPL Chairman Brijesh Patel&nbsp;told PTI.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-delhi-capitals-sign-anrich-nortje-as-chris-woakes-replacement-321427" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Delhi Capitals sign Anrich Nortje as Chris Woakes replacement</a>

The title sponsor of IPL 2020 was left vacant after Vivo – a Chinese mobile manufacturing giant, withdrew for the year following Boycott China trend in the wake of India-China standoff at the Galwan Valley in Ladakh in June. Vivo, which signed a deal of 2000-crore plus deal for a five-year tenure (2018-2022), is a fully funded by a Chinese company.

An official announcement by the Board of Control for Cricket in India is expected soon along with the schedule for IPL 2020.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-salutes-kings-xi-punjab-and-ipl-dream-with-sheldon-cottrell-319471" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell</a>

Meanwhile, the 13th edition of IPL is set to be held in the United Arab Emirates from September 19 with the final scheduled on November 10. The teams have already started to assemble and will be jetting off to the UAE after August 20.&nbsp;

As per the BCCI’s SOP, players and staffs have to remain inside bio-secure bubbles during the course of IPL 2020.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to award the title sponsorship rights of the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 to Dream11. Already a sponsor for the BCCI, Dream11 raced ahead of heavy favourites Tata Sons and edu-tech company Unacademy and BYJU’s.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to award the title sponsorship rights of the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 to Dream11. Already a sponsor for the BCCI, Dream11 raced ahead of heavy favourites Tata Sons and edu-tech company Unacademy and BYJU’s. Dream11 bagged the title sponsorship of IPL 2020 due to their financial bid despite the BCCI saying that money won’t be the only factor in the bidding process. Apparently, Dream11 submitted a bid of INR 222 crore with Unacademy following close with INR 170 crore bid. Tatas and Byju’s had submitted a bit of INR 180 and 170 crore respectively. "Fantasy sports platform Dream11 wins IPL title sponsorship rights with a bid of Rs 222 crore," IPL Chairman Brijesh Patel told PTI. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Delhi Capitals sign Anrich Nortje as Chris Woakes replacement The title sponsor of IPL 2020 was left vacant after Vivo – a Chinese mobile manufacturing giant, withdrew for the year following Boycott China trend in the wake of India-China standoff at the Galwan Valley in Ladakh in June. Vivo, which signed a deal of 2000-crore plus deal for a five-year tenure (2018-2022), is a fully funded by a Chinese company. An official announcement by the Board of Control for Cricket in India is expected soon along with the schedule for IPL 2020. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell Meanwhile, the 13th edition of IPL is set to be held in the United Arab Emirates from September 19 with the final scheduled on November 10. The teams have already started to assemble and will be jetting off to the UAE after August 20. As per the BCCI’s SOP, players and staffs have to remain inside bio-secure bubbles during the course of IPL 2020.

Dream11 awarded title sponsorship for IPL 2020 with a bid of INR 222 crore, confirms Brijesh Patel

With England and Australia confirming the schedule of the upcoming limited-overs series consisting three ODIs and as many T20Is, some of the players from the two sides are set to miss the first week of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> due to quarantine protocols set by the Board of Control from Cricket in India (BCCI).&nbsp;

The likes of Aaron Finch, Pat Cummins are set to miss the initial week of IPL 2020 due to IPL’s COVID-19 testing protocols whereas the likes of David Warner, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Marsh, Josh Phillipe, Kane Richardson, Alex Carey, Marcus Stoinis, Josh Hazlewood and Andrew Tye will also miss the first week of IPL 2020.&nbsp;

Whereas Australia’s senior assistant coach Andrew McDonald has been allowed to join Rajasthan Royals, where he is the head coach and will not be with the Australian team during England tour.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-salutes-kings-xi-punjab-and-ipl-dream-with-sheldon-cottrell-319471" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell</a>

The limited-overs series between England and Australia commences from September 4 and will end on September 16 just three days before IPL starts in the UAE.

As per IPL’s SOPs, all players have to undergo COVID-19 test at the airport and after that will need to complete a compulsory seven-day quarantine in their hotel. Following that, every player will be tested three times during the week and can start training if the results come negative.

ALSO READ:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-kohli-finch-driven-captains-and-inspirational-players-kane-richardson-318576" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Kohli, Finch driven captains and inspirational players: Kane Richardson</a>

While England have not announced the squad, the likes of Eoin Morgan, Tom Banton, Jason Roy, Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow are likely to be named in the squad and therefore will be the first week of IPL. Chris Woakes has already pulled out of IPL 2020.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) will commence from September 19 with the final scheduled to be played on November 10.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

With England and Australia confirming the schedule of the upcoming limited-overs series consisting three ODIs and as many T20Is, some of the players from the two sides are set to miss the first week of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to quarantine protocols set by the Board of Control from Cricket in India (BCCI).

With England and Australia confirming the schedule of the upcoming limited-overs series consisting three ODIs and as many T20Is, some of the players from the two sides are set to miss the first week of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 due to quarantine protocols set by the Board of Control from Cricket in India (BCCI). The likes of Aaron Finch, Pat Cummins are set to miss the initial week of IPL 2020 due to IPL’s COVID-19 testing protocols whereas the likes of David Warner, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Marsh, Josh Phillipe, Kane Richardson, Alex Carey, Marcus Stoinis, Josh Hazlewood and Andrew Tye will also miss the first week of IPL 2020. Whereas Australia’s senior assistant coach Andrew McDonald has been allowed to join Rajasthan Royals, where he is the head coach and will not be with the Australian team during England tour. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell The limited-overs series between England and Australia commences from September 4 and will end on September 16 just three days before IPL starts in the UAE. As per IPL’s SOPs, all players have to undergo COVID-19 test at the airport and after that will need to complete a compulsory seven-day quarantine in their hotel. Following that, every player will be tested three times during the week and can start training if the results come negative. ALSO READ:Exclusive - Kohli, Finch driven captains and inspirational players: Kane Richardson While England have not announced the squad, the likes of Eoin Morgan, Tom Banton, Jason Roy, Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow are likely to be named in the squad and therefore will be the first week of IPL. Chris Woakes has already pulled out of IPL 2020. The Indian Premier League (IPL) will commence from September 19 with the final scheduled to be played on November 10.

From Finch to Maxwell: List of players set to miss first week of IPL 2020

With Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 set to commence from September 19 in the UAE, franchises have started to test their players for COVID-19 before flying out of India. Indian players of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be assembling in Chennai by August 15 for a mini camp before leaving for the UAE for IPL and ahead of the camp, MS Dhoni had given his sample COVID-19 test on Wednesday.

On Thursday, Dhoni’s COVID-19 report came in negative and the iconic CSK skipper will now head to Chennai for the camp with other players before the squad leaves for IPL 2020 in the UAE. Dhoni’s COVID-19 test report has come negative after his sample was taen by the micro praxis lab at Guru Nanak hospital from his farmhouse in Ranchi.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Minsara Kanna... 😍 <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WhistlePodu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WhistlePodu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyJanmashtami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyJanmashtami</a> <a href="https://t.co/O0h4RP1BoZ">pic.twitter.com/O0h4RP1BoZ</a>
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL/status/1293102647738736645?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ipl-2020-excited-to-play-for-kings-xi-punjab-and-under-kl-rahul-ishan-porel-320231" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Excited to play for Kings XI Punjab and under KL Rahul: Ishan Porel</a>

Reportedly, Monu Kumar Singh’s test&nbsp;has also come negative and the duo will head to Chennai for the camp. 
With IPL 2020 set to kickstart from September 19, preparations for the tournament have started in full flow. All the players will be tested before jetting off to the UAE and after arriving there as per the BCCI protocols.&nbsp;

Earlier, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dhoni-raina-among-other-csk-players-to-reach-chennai-by-august-15-319774">CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan had confirmed to WION</a> that the entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-salutes-kings-xi-punjab-and-ipl-dream-with-sheldon-cottrell-319471" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell</a>

“The entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21 and all the arrangements related to it have been made,” Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Vishwanathan told WION on Tuesday while adding that the team will put base in "Dubai".

“Dhoni, Raina and every other Indian player from the squad will reach Chennai by August 15 and after that we will have a small camp to get everyone on the same page,” Vishwanathan added.&nbsp;

With Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 set to commence from September 19 in the UAE, franchises have started to test their players for COVID-19 before flying out of India.

With Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 set to commence from September 19 in the UAE, franchises have started to test their players for COVID-19 before flying out of India. Indian players of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be assembling in Chennai by August 15 for a mini camp before leaving for the UAE for IPL and ahead of the camp, MS Dhoni had given his sample COVID-19 test on Wednesday. On Thursday, Dhoni’s COVID-19 report came in negative and the iconic CSK skipper will now head to Chennai for the camp with other players before the squad leaves for IPL 2020 in the UAE. Dhoni’s COVID-19 test report has come negative after his sample was taen by the micro praxis lab at Guru Nanak hospital from his farmhouse in Ranchi. Minsara Kanna... 😍 @msdhoni #WhistlePodu #HappyJanmashtami pic.twitter.com/O0h4RP1BoZ — Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) August 11, 2020 × ALSO READ: Exclusive - Excited to play for Kings XI Punjab and under KL Rahul: Ishan Porel Reportedly, Monu Kumar Singh’s test has also come negative and the duo will head to Chennai for the camp. With IPL 2020 set to kickstart from September 19, preparations for the tournament have started in full flow. All the players will be tested before jetting off to the UAE and after arriving there as per the BCCI protocols. Earlier, CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan had confirmed to WION that the entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell “The entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21 and all the arrangements related to it have been made,” Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Vishwanathan told WION on Tuesday while adding that the team will put base in "Dubai". “Dhoni, Raina and every other Indian player from the squad will reach Chennai by August 15 and after that we will have a small camp to get everyone on the same page,” Vishwanathan added.

IPL 2020: MS Dhoni tests negative for COVID-19

The much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is set to commence from September 19 in the UAE and all the eight franchises will have their eyes on the coveted trophy. Young Bengal pacer Ishan Porel, who has also impressed for India Under-19 and India A, will be making his IPL debut for Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) after impressing with in the domestic and development circuit.

Porel, who was signed up by KXIP at his base price of INR 20 lakh, will look to carry forward his blistering run of form with the ball when he takes to the field in the UAE. While his ability to extract sharp bounce and movement have been lauded by many, his variations and knack of hitting yorkers have made him one of the rising stars in Indian cricket.&nbsp;

In an exclusive interview with WION’s Subhayan Chakraborty, Ishan Porel talked about IPL 2020 in the UAE, Kings XI Punjab squad, skipper KL Rahul, Anil Kumble and much more.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-salutes-kings-xi-punjab-and-ipl-dream-with-sheldon-cottrell-319471" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell</a>

<img alt="Ishan Porel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4353f8cc-5d3a-4719-aa9c-58d56d5e689c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ishan-Porel.jpg" />

Subhayan Chakraborty: Ishan, your first IPL and it will take place in the UAE. How excited are you?

Ishan Porel: I can’t even explain how excited I am. I have been waiting for this opportunity for a long time now and thankfully, Kings XI Punjab showed their trust on me and my bowling. I am looking forward to live up to their trust and showcase my ability in front of the entire world. I am confident and really excited to take the field for my side KXIP.&nbsp;

Subhayan: How did the last five months go for you? In Bengal, there was not only COVID-19 scare but the state was also stuck by the deadly Amphan…

Ishan Porel: It was challenging. First of all, it was really strange to stay out of cricket for this long due to COVID-19 and Amphan happened. It was a tough phase for everyone in West Bengal but it taught many new learnings in how to be more adaptive as per circumstances. My patience level increased a lot. I tried training a bit as well with all the safety guidelines just to keep myself ready.&nbsp;

Subhayan: And you did step up to help a lot of people after that storm?

Ishan Porel: I feel it is our duty to help the needy people during these times. I tried giving back to the community as much as I could. There are still some areas where people are yet to recover from Amphan and we are still working as much as possible to help those people. It is the basic duty of people who are privileged enough.

Subhayan: So IPL is happening in the UAE. Only three stadiums. Do you think it will be challenging for pace bowlers when pitches start to up later in the tournament?

Ishan Porel: Obviously, it will be a challenge. But as a modern bowler, you need to use your variations as per the need. We have seen in the last few IPLs that if a pacer is bowling quick then it is easier for batsmen to pick him up. But whatever I know of cricket, curators might keep grass covering in the first half of the tournament to keep the pitches alive and if we grab that advantage then it will help me or the pacers to build a momentum for the entire tournament. At least I am accustomed to bowling in slower tracks from my experience in Kolkata.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Porel in Ishan-daar form! 😍<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaddaPunjab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaddaPunjab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RanjiTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RanjiTrophy</a> <a href="https://t.co/LPJA8m3Uhg">pic.twitter.com/LPJA8m3Uhg</a>
— Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) <a href="https://twitter.com/lionsdenkxip/status/1235059896208568320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Subhayan: And how excited are you to share the dressing room with the likes of Mohammed Shami, Sheldon Cottrell, Chris Jordan, Jimmy Neesham and others?

Ishan Porel: I am really looking forward to learning from them. They have plenty of international experience and I feel sharing the dressing room and the ground with them will help me build a solid foundation for my future. As everyone say, IPL is a platform which improves even the best of players and I am just starting now.&nbsp;

But on a different note, I want to spend a lot of time with our fielding coach Jonty Rhodes. Today’s international pacers are brilliant fielders as well and being a youngster I want to become better in that regard and set a benchmark for myself.&nbsp;

Subhayan: You have a lovely story of Rahul Dravid and how he helped you during your Under-19 days. The next legend you will be working with is Anil Kumble. How eager are you to work alongside him?

Ishan Porel: Anil Kumble sir is an inspiration. How he bowled with a broken jaw and his success with Team India is known to all. Moreover, he is extremely disciplined and thinks about cricket a lot. My main focus is to grow and learn more about the game and there is no one better than Kumble sir to help me in that regard. I am really excited and looking forward to work with him.&nbsp;

Subhayan: And what about KL Rahul? Have you interacted since the auction?

Ishan Porel: Tremendous player and very encouraging! I mean he has that aura of calmness around him.&nbsp;The last time we spoke was during the Ranji Trophy semi-final between Bengal and Karnataka. He praised my form and encouraged me to do well in the future and for KXIP. I have a small memory with KL – he was the captain of India Under-23 and I was at NCA during my Under-16 days and I bowled to him in the nets that time. I don’t know whether he remembers this or not but I do (laughs).&nbsp;

<img alt="KL Rahul" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36f17305-f3a5-4fb1-b26a-12986a34b8a7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/kl-rahul-1577252587.jpg" />

Subhayan: So Ishan, do you think the bio-secure bubble will have a psychological impact on the players?&nbsp;

Ishan Porel: It might play a role during the last part of the tournament. But to honest, this coronavirus has taught us how to remain indoors and our patience level has also increased so much. We will be able to interact with our teammates and staff so that’s a good thing. And with us being in competitive mode, I don’t think it will irk the players that much. Safety is the paramount, at the moment.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CCvIIJKpn39/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CCvIIJKpn39/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CCvIIJKpn39/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CCvIIJKpn39/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Memories to cherish forever. #memories</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ishanporel/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Ishan Porel</a> (@ishanporel) on <time datetime="2020-07-17T08:23:35+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jul 17, 2020 at 1:23am PDT</time>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Subhayan: Any targets you have set for yourself?

Ishan Porel: As a youngster, I want to play as many matches as possible. And yes, who doesn’t want to take the wickets of Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Andre Russell and other big names. If I get an opportunity to bowl against them, I will surely try to dismiss them.&nbsp;

Subhayan: Is there any pressure of performing as it will be your first IPL?

Ishan Porel: Not at all! Competitive cricket is all about pressure and that is a good thing, in my opinion. Arun Lal sir used to tell us that pressure brings the best out of good players and I have kept that in my mind. I just want to give my best.&nbsp;

<img alt="Ishan Porel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b7865118-1b0c-49f5-991d-d1d2c94a7855" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/d962e-15839225406360-800.jpg" />

Subhayan: What will be the message for your fans or cricket fans in general ahead of IPL 2020?

Ishan Porel: First of all, thanks to all the fans who have supported me during my good and bad times. Fans are the ones who turn cricketers into superstars. They are the heartbreak of the sport. Hopefully, they will keep their blessings on me and my cricket. &nbsp;

The much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is set to commence from September 19 in the UAE and all the eight franchises will have their eyes on the coveted trophy.

The much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is set to commence from September 19 in the UAE and all the eight franchises will have their eyes on the coveted trophy. Young Bengal pacer Ishan Porel, who has also impressed for India Under-19 and India A, will be making his IPL debut for Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) after impressing with in the domestic and development circuit. Porel, who was signed up by KXIP at his base price of INR 20 lakh, will look to carry forward his blistering run of form with the ball when he takes to the field in the UAE. While his ability to extract sharp bounce and movement have been lauded by many, his variations and knack of hitting yorkers have made him one of the rising stars in Indian cricket. In an exclusive interview with WION’s Subhayan Chakraborty, Ishan Porel talked about IPL 2020 in the UAE, Kings XI Punjab squad, skipper KL Rahul, Anil Kumble and much more. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell Subhayan Chakraborty: Ishan, your first IPL and it will take place in the UAE. How excited are you? Ishan Porel: I can’t even explain how excited I am. I have been waiting for this opportunity for a long time now and thankfully, Kings XI Punjab showed their trust on me and my bowling. I am looking forward to live up to their trust and showcase my ability in front of the entire world. I am confident and really excited to take the field for my side KXIP. Subhayan: How did the last five months go for you? In Bengal, there was not only COVID-19 scare but the state was also stuck by the deadly Amphan… Ishan Porel: It was challenging. First of all, it was really strange to stay out of cricket for this long due to COVID-19 and Amphan happened. It was a tough phase for everyone in West Bengal but it taught many new learnings in how to be more adaptive as per circumstances. My patience level increased a lot. I tried training a bit as well with all the safety guidelines just to keep myself ready. Subhayan: And you did step up to help a lot of people after that storm? Ishan Porel: I feel it is our duty to help the needy people during these times. I tried giving back to the community as much as I could. There are still some areas where people are yet to recover from Amphan and we are still working as much as possible to help those people. It is the basic duty of people who are privileged enough. Subhayan: So IPL is happening in the UAE. Only three stadiums. Do you think it will be challenging for pace bowlers when pitches start to up later in the tournament? Ishan Porel: Obviously, it will be a challenge. But as a modern bowler, you need to use your variations as per the need. We have seen in the last few IPLs that if a pacer is bowling quick then it is easier for batsmen to pick him up. But whatever I know of cricket, curators might keep grass covering in the first half of the tournament to keep the pitches alive and if we grab that advantage then it will help me or the pacers to build a momentum for the entire tournament. At least I am accustomed to bowling in slower tracks from my experience in Kolkata. Porel in Ishan-daar form! 😍#SaddaPunjab #RanjiTrophy pic.twitter.com/LPJA8m3Uhg — Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) March 4, 2020 × Subhayan: And how excited are you to share the dressing room with the likes of Mohammed Shami, Sheldon Cottrell, Chris Jordan, Jimmy Neesham and others? Ishan Porel: I am really looking forward to learning from them. They have plenty of international experience and I feel sharing the dressing room and the ground with them will help me build a solid foundation for my future. As everyone say, IPL is a platform which improves even the best of players and I am just starting now. But on a different note, I want to spend a lot of time with our fielding coach Jonty Rhodes. Today’s international pacers are brilliant fielders as well and being a youngster I want to become better in that regard and set a benchmark for myself. Subhayan: You have a lovely story of Rahul Dravid and how he helped you during your Under-19 days. The next legend you will be working with is Anil Kumble. How eager are you to work alongside him? Ishan Porel: Anil Kumble sir is an inspiration. How he bowled with a broken jaw and his success with Team India is known to all. Moreover, he is extremely disciplined and thinks about cricket a lot. My main focus is to grow and learn more about the game and there is no one better than Kumble sir to help me in that regard. I am really excited and looking forward to work with him. Subhayan: And what about KL Rahul? Have you interacted since the auction? Ishan Porel: Tremendous player and very encouraging! I mean he has that aura of calmness around him. The last time we spoke was during the Ranji Trophy semi-final between Bengal and Karnataka. He praised my form and encouraged me to do well in the future and for KXIP. I have a small memory with KL – he was the captain of India Under-23 and I was at NCA during my Under-16 days and I bowled to him in the nets that time. I don’t know whether he remembers this or not but I do (laughs). Subhayan: So Ishan, do you think the bio-secure bubble will have a psychological impact on the players? Ishan Porel: It might play a role during the last part of the tournament. But to honest, this coronavirus has taught us how to remain indoors and our patience level has also increased so much. We will be able to interact with our teammates and staff so that’s a good thing. And with us being in competitive mode, I don’t think it will irk the players that much. Safety is the paramount, at the moment. View this post on Instagram Memories to cherish forever. #memories A post shared by Ishan Porel (@ishanporel) on Jul 17, 2020 at 1:23am PDT × Subhayan: Any targets you have set for yourself? Ishan Porel: As a youngster, I want to play as many matches as possible. And yes, who doesn’t want to take the wickets of Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Andre Russell and other big names. If I get an opportunity to bowl against them, I will surely try to dismiss them. Subhayan: Is there any pressure of performing as it will be your first IPL? Ishan Porel: Not at all! Competitive cricket is all about pressure and that is a good thing, in my opinion. Arun Lal sir used to tell us that pressure brings the best out of good players and I have kept that in my mind. I just want to give my best. Subhayan: What will be the message for your fans or cricket fans in general ahead of IPL 2020? Ishan Porel: First of all, thanks to all the fans who have supported me during my good and bad times. Fans are the ones who turn cricketers into superstars. They are the heartbreak of the sport. Hopefully, they will keep their blessings on me and my cricket.

Exclusive - Excited to play for Kings XI Punjab and under KL Rahul: Ishan Porel

The much-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> is set to commence from September 19 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the preparations for the cash-rich tournament have started in full flow. While the BCCI has received all the necessary clearance from Indian government, the teams are gearing up to fly to the UAE after August 20.&nbsp;

Before jetting off to the UAE, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will gather at the MA Chidambaram Stadium with players set to arrive in Chennai by August 15. CSK skipper MS Dhoni got tested for COVID-19 ahead of their IPL 2020 camp as he underwent a test on Wednesday and the report is expected to be out by Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;

As per reports, Dhoni’s sample was taken by the micro praxis lab at Guru Nanak hospital from his farmhouse in Ranchi. Apart from Dhoni, CSK player Monu Kumar Singh also gave his sample.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dhoni-raina-among-other-csk-players-to-reach-chennai-by-august-15-319774" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Dhoni, Raina among other CSK players to reach Chennai by August 15</a>

Earlier, CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan had confirmed to WION that the entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21.

“The entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21 and all the arrangements related to it have been made,” Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Vishwanathan told WION on Tuesday while adding that the team will put base in "Dubai".

“Dhoni, Raina and every other Indian player from the squad will reach Chennai by August 15 and after that we will have a small camp to get everyone on the same page,” Vishwanathan added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-salutes-kings-xi-punjab-and-ipl-dream-with-sheldon-cottrell-319471" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell</a>

Meanwhile, Dhoni will be back on the cricket field after playing his last professional match in the ICC World Cup 2019 semi-final against New Zealand.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

 
Both the players will travel to Chennai for the five-day CSK camp if they get a negative res

The much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is set to commence from September 19 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the preparations for the cash-rich tournament have started in full flow.

The much-awaited Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is set to commence from September 19 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the preparations for the cash-rich tournament have started in full flow. While the BCCI has received all the necessary clearance from Indian government, the teams are gearing up to fly to the UAE after August 20. Before jetting off to the UAE, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will gather at the MA Chidambaram Stadium with players set to arrive in Chennai by August 15. CSK skipper MS Dhoni got tested for COVID-19 ahead of their IPL 2020 camp as he underwent a test on Wednesday and the report is expected to be out by Thursday afternoon. As per reports, Dhoni’s sample was taken by the micro praxis lab at Guru Nanak hospital from his farmhouse in Ranchi. Apart from Dhoni, CSK player Monu Kumar Singh also gave his sample. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Dhoni, Raina among other CSK players to reach Chennai by August 15 Earlier, CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan had confirmed to WION that the entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21. “The entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21 and all the arrangements related to it have been made,” Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Vishwanathan told WION on Tuesday while adding that the team will put base in "Dubai". “Dhoni, Raina and every other Indian player from the squad will reach Chennai by August 15 and after that we will have a small camp to get everyone on the same page,” Vishwanathan added. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell Meanwhile, Dhoni will be back on the cricket field after playing his last professional match in the ICC World Cup 2019 semi-final against New Zealand. Both the players will travel to Chennai for the five-day CSK camp if they get a negative res

IPL 2020: MS Dhoni undergoes COVID-19 test, report expected today

Just as the teams gear up for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a>, Rajasthan Royals fielding coach Dishant Yagnik on Wednesday tested positive for COVID-19 and will now quarantine for 14 days. Yagnik will be tested again and will need two negative tests before joining the Rajasthan Royals squad in the UAE.&nbsp;

Yagnik took to social media platform Twitter to confirm the news as he urged everyone, who have been in his contact in the past 10 days, to get themselves tested for the dreaded coronavirus.&nbsp;

“Hi all, I hv tested COVID +. Pls get tested if you hv been in contact with me in the last 10 days. In line wd BCCI protocols I will be now quarantining for 14 days. I will then need 2 ngtv tests b4 joining the team @rajasthanroyals in UAE. Thx 4 yr blessings &amp; good wishes!,” Yagnik, who played for Rajasthan Royals in IPL for four seasons in 2011 to 2015, tweeted.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Hi all, I hv tested COVID +. Pls get tested if you hv been in contact with me in the last 10 days. In line wd BCCI protocols I will be now quarantining for 14 days. I will then need 2 ngtv tests b4 joining the team <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajasthanroyals</a> in UAE. Thx 4 yr blessings &amp; good wishes!
— Dishant Yagnik (@Dishantyagnik77) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dishantyagnik77/status/1293436534553628674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-salutes-kings-xi-punjab-and-ipl-dream-with-sheldon-cottrell-319471" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell</a>

Rajasthan Royals were quick to respond to the tweet as they wished him a speedy recovery while adding the team is looking forward to seeing him in the UAE soon.

“Wish you a speedy and full recovery, @Dishantyagnik77! Looking forward to seeing you soon in the UAE, putting the boys through their paces,” Rajasthan Royals responded to Yagnik’s tweet.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Wish you a speedy and full recovery, <a href="https://twitter.com/Dishantyagnik77?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dishantyagnik77</a>! Looking forward to seeing you soon in the UAE, putting the boys through their paces. <a href="https://t.co/Y9NnBKJpfE">https://t.co/Y9NnBKJpfE</a>
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1293437724385402880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-dhoni-raina-among-other-csk-players-to-reach-chennai-by-august-15-319774" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Dhoni, Raina among other CSK players to reach Chennai by August 15</a>

Rajasthan Royals further confirmed, in a statement, that Dishant will be admitted to a hospital to recover completely while adding he wasn't in close proximity to any IPL or RR players in the last 10 days.&nbsp;

All the players and staff heading to the UAE for IPL 2020 will be tested rigorously in line with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) protocols. While players and staff will be tested before and after flying to the UAE, they are likely to be tested four times in two weeks during the course of the tournament.&nbsp;

The Indian board has created strict SOPs for the IPL, which includes ‘bio-secure bubble’ guidelines, matches behind closed doors, instructions on practice and match days, and protocols for family members, among others.

The IPL 2020 is set to commence from September 19 with the final scheduled for November 10. 
&nbsp;

Just as the teams gear up for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, Rajasthan Royals fielding coach Dishant Yagnik on Wednesday tested positive for COVID-19 and will now quarantine for 14 days.

Just as the teams gear up for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, Rajasthan Royals fielding coach Dishant Yagnik on Wednesday tested positive for COVID-19 and will now quarantine for 14 days. Yagnik will be tested again and will need two negative tests before joining the Rajasthan Royals squad in the UAE. Yagnik took to social media platform Twitter to confirm the news as he urged everyone, who have been in his contact in the past 10 days, to get themselves tested for the dreaded coronavirus. “Hi all, I hv tested COVID +. Pls get tested if you hv been in contact with me in the last 10 days. In line wd BCCI protocols I will be now quarantining for 14 days. I will then need 2 ngtv tests b4 joining the team @rajasthanroyals in UAE. Thx 4 yr blessings & good wishes!,” Yagnik, who played for Rajasthan Royals in IPL for four seasons in 2011 to 2015, tweeted. Hi all, I hv tested COVID +. Pls get tested if you hv been in contact with me in the last 10 days. In line wd BCCI protocols I will be now quarantining for 14 days. I will then need 2 ngtv tests b4 joining the team @rajasthanroyals in UAE. Thx 4 yr blessings & good wishes! — Dishant Yagnik (@Dishantyagnik77) August 12, 2020 × ALSO READ: Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell Rajasthan Royals were quick to respond to the tweet as they wished him a speedy recovery while adding the team is looking forward to seeing him in the UAE soon. “Wish you a speedy and full recovery, @Dishantyagnik77! Looking forward to seeing you soon in the UAE, putting the boys through their paces,” Rajasthan Royals responded to Yagnik’s tweet. Wish you a speedy and full recovery, @Dishantyagnik77! Looking forward to seeing you soon in the UAE, putting the boys through their paces. https://t.co/Y9NnBKJpfE — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) August 12, 2020 × ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Dhoni, Raina among other CSK players to reach Chennai by August 15 Rajasthan Royals further confirmed, in a statement, that Dishant will be admitted to a hospital to recover completely while adding he wasn't in close proximity to any IPL or RR players in the last 10 days. All the players and staff heading to the UAE for IPL 2020 will be tested rigorously in line with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) protocols. While players and staff will be tested before and after flying to the UAE, they are likely to be tested four times in two weeks during the course of the tournament. The Indian board has created strict SOPs for the IPL, which includes ‘bio-secure bubble’ guidelines, matches behind closed doors, instructions on practice and match days, and protocols for family members, among others. The IPL 2020 is set to commence from September 19 with the final scheduled for November 10.

IPL 2020: Rajasthan Royals fielding coach Dishant Yagnik tests positive for COVID-19

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to leave for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl?page=1">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> on August 21, CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan confirmed to WION on Tuesday. Furthermore, all the Indian CSK players including the likes of MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina will assemble at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai by August 15 for a small-camp before jetting off to the UAE for the much-awaited IPL 2020.&nbsp;

“The entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21 and all the arrangements related to it have been made,” Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Vishwanathan told WION on Tuesday while adding that the team will put base in "Dubai".

CSK are also set to take 10 net bowlers to help prepare the team for a grueling season ahead.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-salutes-kings-xi-punjab-and-ipl-dream-with-sheldon-cottrell-319471" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell</a>

“Nothing has been confirmed yet. But yes, we are planning to take eight to 10 net bowlers to help the players get ready for the tournament. No names have been finalised yet,” the CSK top boss added.&nbsp;

All eyes will be on the return of two stalwarts of Indian cricket and icons of Chennai Super Kings – MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina. While CSK are known to have a team consisting experienced players, Dhoni and Raina always steal the show for their consistency.

While IPL is a platform where both will be seen taking the field again, fans can’t wait to catch the iconic CSK duo in action after a long time. While Dhoni last took the field in the ICC World Cup 2019, Raina was last seen playing in IPL 2019.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-invites-tender-for-ipl-sponsorship-for-4-month-period-highest-bid-not-guaranteed-winner-319545" hreflang="en">BCCI invites tender for IPL sponsorship for 4-month period; highest bid not guaranteed winner</a>

“Dhoni, Raina and every other Indian player from the squad will reach Chennai by August 15 and after that we will have a small camp to get everyone on the same page,” Vishwanathan said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/emirates-cricket-board-receives-official-clearance-from-bcci-to-host-ipl-2020-319748">Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday confirmed that they have received an official clearance from the BCCI to conduct the IPL in the UAE</a>.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is set to kickstart from September 19 in the UAE with the final scheduled for November 10.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to leave for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 on August 21, CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan confirmed to WION on Tuesday.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are all set to leave for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 on August 21, CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan confirmed to WION on Tuesday. Furthermore, all the Indian CSK players including the likes of MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina will assemble at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai by August 15 for a small-camp before jetting off to the UAE for the much-awaited IPL 2020. “The entire team will be flying to the UAE on August 21 and all the arrangements related to it have been made,” Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Vishwanathan told WION on Tuesday while adding that the team will put base in "Dubai". CSK are also set to take 10 net bowlers to help prepare the team for a grueling season ahead. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Salutes, Kings XI Punjab and IPL dream with Sheldon Cottrell “Nothing has been confirmed yet. But yes, we are planning to take eight to 10 net bowlers to help the players get ready for the tournament. No names have been finalised yet,” the CSK top boss added. All eyes will be on the return of two stalwarts of Indian cricket and icons of Chennai Super Kings – MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina. While CSK are known to have a team consisting experienced players, Dhoni and Raina always steal the show for their consistency. While IPL is a platform where both will be seen taking the field again, fans can’t wait to catch the iconic CSK duo in action after a long time. While Dhoni last took the field in the ICC World Cup 2019, Raina was last seen playing in IPL 2019. ALSO READ: BCCI invites tender for IPL sponsorship for 4-month period; highest bid not guaranteed winner “Dhoni, Raina and every other Indian player from the squad will reach Chennai by August 15 and after that we will have a small camp to get everyone on the same page,” Vishwanathan said. Meanwhile, the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday confirmed that they have received an official clearance from the BCCI to conduct the IPL in the UAE. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is set to kickstart from September 19 in the UAE with the final scheduled for November 10.

IPL 2020: Dhoni, Raina among other CSK players to reach Chennai by August 15

The Black Lives Matter (BLM) Movement took the entire world by storm following the death of African-American man George Floyd, under police custody, in Minneapolis on May 25. While there were worldwide protests, superstars from the sports world took a step forward and joined the movement.

While the likes of Lewis Hamilton, Coco Gauff, Israel Adesanya among many others taking to the streets to voice their anguish against racism, other players and teams took a knee before the start of matches in Premier League, Bundesliga and other top leagues.&nbsp;

In cricket world, the England-West Indies Test series, which was the first international series after the COVID-19 break, set a benchmark as players, umpires and coaching staff took a knee before the commencement of all three Test matches. Sportspersons, who are an inspiration for millions, started to take a leading role in Black Lives Matter Movement.&nbsp;

South Africa, a country which has suffered from racism for long, also took a stand for Black Lives Matter Movement, as players, officials and coaching staff took a knee before the start of their 3TC event, which was held in Centurion, and sent a strong message to the entire world on how severe the issue of racism is.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-kohli-finch-driven-captains-and-inspirational-players-kane-richardson-318576" hreflang="en">Exclusive - Kohli, Finch driven captains and inspirational players: Kane Richardson</a>

West Indies fast bowler Sheldon Cottrell, who was also a soldier for Jamaican Defence Force for over a decade, in an exclusive interview with WION, said that if required, he will take a knee in the upcoming Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="https://w3.cdn.anvato.net/player/prod/v3/anvload.html?key=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%3D%3D" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Cottrell is set to play for St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots in CPL 2020 and will make a much-awaited debut in IPL 2020 for Kings XI Punjab, who signed him up for a whopping Rs 8.5 crore in the auction.

While Cottrell said that he has never experienced racism before, he knows the issue is for real and is completely against any form of discrimination.&nbsp;

“I have never experienced racism before. But I know it is for real and totally against it (racism) in any ways or form. We are all human beings and only thing I know to show is love. I don’t care where you are from. I don’t care what’s your skin colour. Only thing I know is loving others. I have grown to understand that some people are different but you don’t need to treat them different,” Cottrell who was the highest wicket-taker for the Windies in ICC World Cup 2019 told WION in an exclusive interview.

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-australias-josh-hazlewood-on-ipl-2020-csk-and-ms-dhoni-and-india-series-316501" hreflang="en">WION Exclusive: Australia's Josh Hazlewood on IPL 2020, CSK and MS Dhoni and India series</a>

When asked whether he would take a knee in CPL 2020 or IPL 2020, the Windies pacer said if required, he will take a knee and won’t oppose to it as he is with the movement while citing examples of Colin Kaepernick and others who have done it on the field.&nbsp;

“About the knee, if required, I will, to be honest (take a knee). I won’t oppose because I am with the movement and for the movement. For once, you have the platform, where you can exercise your beliefs, there’s nothing wrong with it. I think that’s the best stage. Kaepernick did it. A lot of people after him did it. And it is something I don’t have a problem with,” Cottrell said.&nbsp;

Cottrell has been pick of the bowler for the West Indies in the limited-overs circuit as the left-arm pacer picked up 49 wickets in 35 ODIs. Whereas in T20Is, he has 36 scalps in 27 matches.&nbsp;

The Black Lives Matter (BLM) Movement took the entire world by storm following the death of African-American man George Floyd, under police custody, in Minneapolis on May 25.

The Black Lives Matter (BLM) Movement took the entire world by storm following the death of African-American man George Floyd, under police custody, in Minneapolis on May 25. While there were worldwide protests, superstars from the sports world took a step forward and joined the movement. While the likes of Lewis Hamilton, Coco Gauff, Israel Adesanya among many others taking to the streets to voice their anguish against racism, other players and teams took a knee before the start of matches in Premier League, Bundesliga and other top leagues. In cricket world, the England-West Indies Test series, which was the first international series after the COVID-19 break, set a benchmark as players, umpires and coaching staff took a knee before the commencement of all three Test matches. Sportspersons, who are an inspiration for millions, started to take a leading role in Black Lives Matter Movement. South Africa, a country which has suffered from racism for long, also took a stand for Black Lives Matter Movement, as players, officials and coaching staff took a knee before the start of their 3TC event, which was held in Centurion, and sent a strong message to the entire world on how severe the issue of racism is. ALSO READ: Exclusive - Kohli, Finch driven captains and inspirational players: Kane Richardson West Indies fast bowler Sheldon Cottrell, who was also a soldier for Jamaican Defence Force for over a decade, in an exclusive interview with WION, said that if required, he will take a knee in the upcoming Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. × Cottrell is set to play for St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots in CPL 2020 and will make a much-awaited debut in IPL 2020 for Kings XI Punjab, who signed him up for a whopping Rs 8.5 crore in the auction. While Cottrell said that he has never experienced racism before, he knows the issue is for real and is completely against any form of discrimination. “I have never experienced racism before. But I know it is for real and totally against it (racism) in any ways or form. We are all human beings and only thing I know to show is love. I don’t care where you are from. I don’t care what’s your skin colour. Only thing I know is loving others. I have grown to understand that some people are different but you don’t need to treat them different,” Cottrell who was the highest wicket-taker for the Windies in ICC World Cup 2019 told WION in an exclusive interview. ALSO WATCH: WION Exclusive: Australia's Josh Hazlewood on IPL 2020, CSK and MS Dhoni and India series When asked whether he would take a knee in CPL 2020 or IPL 2020, the Windies pacer said if required, he will take a knee and won’t oppose to it as he is with the movement while citing examples of Colin Kaepernick and others who have done it on the field. “About the knee, if required, I will, to be honest (take a knee). I won’t oppose because I am with the movement and for the movement. For once, you have the platform, where you can exercise your beliefs, there’s nothing wrong with it. I think that’s the best stage. Kaepernick did it. A lot of people after him did it. And it is something I don’t have a problem with,” Cottrell said. Cottrell has been pick of the bowler for the West Indies in the limited-overs circuit as the left-arm pacer picked up 49 wickets in 35 ODIs. Whereas in T20Is, he has 36 scalps in 27 matches.

Exclusive - Will take a knee in CPL and IPL, if required: Sheldon Cottrell

ipl-2020

Ipl 2020, News on Ipl 2020, stories on Ipl 2020, articles on Ipl 2020, Ipl 2020 stories at Wion, Ipl 2020 news, Ipl 2020 latest news

ipl 2020